Select Committee on Digital Skills - Report of Session 2014–15

Make or Break: The UK’s Digital Future

Appendix 7: Go ON UK’s definition of basic digital skills

Managing information

Communicating

Transacting

Problem-solving

Creating

Description

Find, manage and store digital information and content.

Communicate, interact, collaborate, share and connect with others.

Purchase and sell goods and services, organise your finances and use digital Government services.

Increase independence and confidence by solving problems and finding solutions using digital tools.

Create basic digital content in order to engage with digital communities and organisations.

Safety

Assess the accuracy of sources of information; use security tools when browsing; regularly update and run virus-checking software; and manage parental controls.

Understand how to manage your identities; protect yourself from scams; use the right security settings (including parental controls); and protect your customer data.

Use secure websites for financial transactions; protect your personal data; and respect the privacy of others.

Use accurate sources of support; and avoid malicious websites, scams and pop-up windows.

Be aware of copyright law; protect your personal data; and respect the privacy of others.

Actions for Individuals
  • Use a search engine to find the information you need.
  • Search for deals on comparison websites.
  • Bookmark useful websites and services.
  • Store data on a device or in the cloud.
  • Keep in touch using email, instant messaging, video calls and social media.
  • Post on forums to connect with communities.
  • Communicate with organisations about their products and services.
  • Understand and use marketplaces to buy and sell.
  • Order your shopping.
  • Book your travel.
  • Manage your bank account.
  • Set up and manage a Universal Credit account.
  • Teach yourself simple tasks using tutorials.
  • Use feedback from other internet users to solve common problems.
  • Access support services.
  • Create a social media post.
  • Create a text document such as a CV.
  • Create and share a photo album.
  • Create and share feedback about products and services.

Actions for organisations
  • Store digital information on suppliers and customers.
  • Search for new suppliers to find the best deals.
  • Understand who uses your website.
  • Discover potential growth opportunities for your business.
  • Maintain customer and client relationships.
  • Use social media to promote your business and connect with new customers.
  • Improve your customer service by providing accessible product information and answers to frequently asked questions.
  • Maximise your selling potential through a website.
  • Save time by applying for Government business permits and licences.
  • Manage invoices and accounts.
  • Receive payments or donations.
  • Protect yourself from fraud or scams.
  • Save on business travel and be more efficient by using video conferencing.
  • Quickly understand which products and services work based on online feedback.
  • Interpret simple analytics to improve website performance.
  • Get solutions to problems from safe, accurate sources.
  • Create an informational or e-commerce website.
  • Create content (pictures, logos, text) to promote your organisation and reach customers.
  • Use social media and create communities to engage with customers.
  • Create resources to improve employee skill levels.

Source: Go ON UK, ‘Basic Digital Skills definition’: http://www.go-on.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/Basic-Digital-Skills-Table-CG.pdf [accessed 29 January 2015]