Dimension Data i-Commerce Services has bolstered its reputation as an employer of choice by implementing an innovative, holistic training programme.
The objective of the programme is to attract, retain and develop high-calibre staff. It plays an integral role in the company`s commitment to building long-term partnerships with customers.
Joe Curran, training executive of Dimension Data i-Commerce Services, says: "By offering a professional skills development programme, we are confident this objective will be achieved."
The company has taken training beyond technology to ensure that its people`s knowledge is not limited to product expertise. Instead, staff are given opportunities to develop areas such as presentation skills, project management, business communications, finance, marketing and interpersonal skills.
In addition, this initiative ensures that Dimension Data i-Commerce Services complies with the Skills Development Act. "If the training levy moves from its current rate of 0,5% to 1% and eventually 3% or 4%, we will be well positioned to meet those requirements," Curran says. "A project of this nature calls for a significant culture change, and that takes time. Now is definitely the right time to start."
The co-ordinated training programme encourages individuals to take responsibility for their own careers. Dimension Data i-Commerce Services works with a number of preferred suppliers which offer recognised courses.
According to Curran, the focus is on continuous development. As people progress from entry level, they will learn to understand their needs, discuss appropriate courses with their managers, and develop additional skills.
"The idea is not to offer a prescriptive career path, but to help people build their capabilities so that they can take on new opportunities," he says. "Our definition of training is broad - it encompasses formal courses, internal training, seminars and coaching."
Share
Dimension Data
Dimension Data is a leading global network and interactive integration services Group which provides communications network services and e-commerce solutions to enterprises, telecommunications service providers and new economy companies.
Operating in 31 countries on six continents, the Dimension Data Group is divided into the Network Services and Interactive Commerce (i-Commerce) divisions. The Group is one of the largest independent network and interactive integration services businesses world-wide, offering customers truly global solutions.
The Group has achieved a compound annual growth rate of 98% in turnover and 57% in headline earnings per share over the past five years.