Key Qualifications for Tomorrow’s World of Work

Future Skills – What Companies Need to Know Now

In a rapidly evolving work environment shaped by digitalization, artificial intelligence, and modern technologies, new competencies are in demand: Future Skills. These include not only digital competencies but also social skills such as emotional intelligence and collaborative work. Companies that proactively train their employees and prepare them for the challenges of tomorrow’s workplace gain long-term competitive advantages. Learn why Future Skills are essential in project management and how to develop them effectively.

Our work environment is changing at an incredible pace. Digitalization, artificial intelligence (AI), remote work, and hybrid teams challenge us daily. But what do project managers really need to succeed in this dynamic setting? This question was the focus of Dr. Jessica Nagel’s dissertation. At the core of her research lies a competency that is frequently mentioned but rarely clearly defined: Digital Literacy – the ability not only to understand digital technologies but also to use them meaningfully and purposefully in everyday project work. This digital competency is part of what is now known as Future Skills, considered key qualifications for the workplace of the future.

Why Future Skills Are Key to a Changing World of Work

Future Skills refer to competencies that are essential in tomorrow’s working world. These include confident use of digital tools, the ability to self-organize, collaborative work, and a strong sense for managing information overload. Dr. Nagel’s research revealed that it’s not just technical skills that matter – but especially social and personal competencies. These include emotional intelligence, communication skills, and the ability to foster trust and closeness in virtual teams. In an increasingly networked world, these skills are in demand across all industries.

A central result of Dr. Nagel’s dissertation is the development of a Competency Framework for Digitally Structured Project Management. The graphic below illustrates the seven dimensions of competence necessary for successful project execution in digital environments:
The seven dimensions include:
 

  • Information & Data Management: Confident handling of digital data and information
  • Virtual Collaboration: Effective teamwork across digital channels
  • Digital Communication: Targeted communication in virtual environments
  • Knowledge and Content Creation: Using digital tools to generate knowledge
  • Ethics, Responsibility, and Security: Awareness of data protection, ethical considerations, and digital security
  • Digital Management: Planning, controlling, and monitoring projects using digital tools
  • Technical Competence: Understanding and applying technological tools in project management
     

The visualization also shows how these dimensions are linked to typical areas of activity such as project definition, planning, execution, and risk management. The model forms the basis for deriving Future Skills in project management.

Key Qualifications for Tomorrow’s World of Work
Competency Framework for Digital Project Management – An Overview of Future Skills


How Are the Requirements for Project Managers Changing?

While the methods of project management remain largely stable, the role itself has significantly evolved. Today, project work often takes place digitally and across multiple locations. This means project managers need a strong digital mindset, the ability to lead virtual teams, and the confidence to select and apply new technologies effectively. Especially the impact of digitalization and the use of Generative AI present both new challenges and tremendous opportunities for companies.

A key element here is the Future Skills Framework, which helps organizations identify which competencies should be prioritized. In addition to core project management skills, transformative competencies are necessary to respond flexibly to rapid changes. New Work skills and modern organizational structures play a vital role in promoting agile processes and meeting dynamic market demands.

What Can Companies Do Now?

Many companies invest in tools – but the key to success lies with the people. Future Skills can be developed through targeted professional training, room for experimentation, and a corporate culture that embraces change as an opportunity. A core success factor is Skills Management. Through strategic competency management, companies can promote digital skills, enhance communication capabilities, and systematically develop emotional intelligence.

One effective approach is the implementation of a Skills Program that emphasizes Lifelong Learning and actively prepares employees for future challenges. Competency-based learning is a key strategy here. This approach focuses on training practical skills that can be applied directly in everyday work. It enables transferable skills – capabilities that can be utilized across different projects or roles. To meet the challenges of the future, these skills must take center stage in corporate training and development.

Why Digital Literacy Is More Than Just “IT Knowledge”

Digital Literacy goes beyond simply knowing software or tools. It’s about using information effectively, reflecting critically, and making autonomous decisions. Those who can efficiently facilitate virtual workshops, structure digital processes, and motivate their teams remotely clearly have an edge in today’s digital project landscape.

Conclusion

A changing world of work requires more than just technological innovation – it needs people who can shape that innovation. Future Skills are not a trend – they are a prerequisite for successfully managing projects. Companies that invest in developing these competencies today will be better equipped for tomorrow. Not just technologically – but above all, humanly.

A strong Skills Management strategy, a commitment to Lifelong Learning, and an agile corporate culture are the keys to future-proofing project management. Targeted employee development through professional learning initiatives lays the foundation for thriving in a transforming world of work.

Learn more about how XEPTUM supports companies in building digital competencies and successfully anchoring Future Skills in project management – for lasting impact.

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