Skillsoft & Microsoft launch GenAI programme to boost productivity
Skillsoft has announced a new collaborative initiative with technology giant Microsoft to bolster global business productivity through a generative AI (GenAI) upskilling programme. The programme, developed using Skillsoft's AI Skill Accelerator, is designed to equip organisations and their workforce with the expertise to use Microsoft's AI tools, including Copilot and Azure Open AI, fostering innovation and efficiency.
Ron Hovsepian, Executive Chair at Skillsoft, expressed the potential benefits of the programme: “Generative AI brings limitless opportunity to organisations. We're seeing this firsthand through Skillsoft's internal adoption of Copilot for Microsoft 365 and its potential to enhance our efficiency, creativity, and ability to achieve key business objectives. However, realising these benefits at scale requires a skilled workforce that understands how to apply the technology in day-to-day work. This collaboration with Microsoft is the first of many AI learning experiences we will deliver to help our customers and their talent—from everyday end-users to business leaders to AI developers—acquire the skills and tools they need to succeed in the age of AI."
The AI Skill Accelerator offers a blended learning experience, including on-demand courses, personal and group coaching, live Instructor-Led Training (ILT), and hands-on practice labs. According to Skillsoft, 98% of participants in the programme's pilot phase reported an immediate ability to apply their newly acquired skills in their roles. The initiative is designed to advance organisations through critical phases of AI maturity in as few as 90 days.
The GenAI skilling programme facilitates a multi-faceted approach to workforce development by allowing customers to assess the current state of AI-related technology and leadership skills across the workforce. This programme enables data-driven decisions about where talent can drive strategic business outcomes with AI, utilising Skillsoft's dashboards. It also supports the rapid development of AI competencies through emerging training methods powered by Microsoft's Azure Open AI, such as Skillsoft’s AI-powered coach, CAISY. Furthermore, the programme allows for the reassessment of existing talent and skills gaps via post-training benchmarks to ensure the right people are in the right roles.
Jeana Jorgensen, Corporate Vice President of Worldwide Learning at Microsoft, highlighted the shared goals and long-standing relationship between the two companies: "Microsoft and Skillsoft have a long-standing relationship and share a common goal to enable AI transformation across every area of business. This learning experience is designed to empower individuals and organisations to harness the full capabilities of generative AI, Microsoft Copilot, and Microsoft's AI apps and services. It aims to spark innovation among our customers, potentially giving them a competitive edge in their respective fields."
The collaboration between Skillsoft and Microsoft comes at a time of prevalent workforce challenges. According to data from PwC, 41% of workers are experiencing a significant increase in their workload, and 37% believe they need to learn how to use new tools and technologies to perform their job roles effectively. The new programme aims to meet this urgent need for safe and scalable automation.
The new GenAI skilling programme is seen as a step forward in helping organisations achieve AI maturity and operational excellence. By leveraging advanced AI tools and methodologies, both companies hope to drive significant improvements in business productivity and organisational innovation, enabling employees across various sectors to adapt and excel in the rapidly evolving technological landscape.
