Employees’ Perceptions of Talent Development During a Digital Transformation

Employees’ Perceptions of Talent Development During a Digital Transformation by LaKesha Lake Edwards MS, Purdue University Global, 2012 BS, University of Georgia, 2000 Dissertation Submitted in Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy Industrial-Organizational Psychology Walden University August 2021 Abstract As organizations transition to new digital technologies, talent development approaches are needed to help employees develop their digital skills. The purpose of this qualitative multiple case study was to explore the experiences of employees in a talent development program to understand talent development practices of building the digital skills of communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking of employees during the implementation of new digital technologies in the organization. The resource-based view was the conceptual framework. Data were collected from ten participants from three organizations, using interviews and questionnaires. The thematic data analysis resulted in three findings: (a) the digital skill of communication is essential and developed through work tasks that contribute to the business outcomes of an organization, (b) the opportunity to practice digital skills is an effective skill development activity because it enables hands-on experience, and (c) employees are their own biggest barrier and should seek resources inside and outside of their company to advance their careers. Human resource management and talent development practitioners may use the results of this study to improve practices to overcome barriers to developing the digital skills ofAs organizations transition to new digital technologies, talent development approaches are needed to help employees develop their digital skills. The purpose of this qualitative multiple case study was to explore the experiences of employees in a talent development program to understand talent development practices of building the digital skills of communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking of employees during the implementation of new digital technologies in the organization. The resource-based view was the conceptual framework. Data were collected from ten participants from three organizations, using interviews and questionnaires. The thematic data analysis resulted in three findings: (a) the digital skill of communication is essential and developed through work tasks that contribute to the business outcomes of an organization, (b) the opportunity to practice digital skills is an effective skill development activity because it enables hands-on experience, and (c) employees are their own biggest barrier and should seek resources inside and outside of their company to advance their careers. Human resource management and talent development practitioners may use the results of this study to improve practices to overcome barriers to developing the digital skills of employees. When organizations invest in developing their talent, the outcome may be more engaged and motivated employees. Likewise, employees may experience organizational purpose and meaningful work, which may enhance the well-being of employees and the organization. This study will contribute to positive social change by increasing awareness of talent development practices that may be used during digital transformation to improve the outcomes for organizations and employees. Employees’ Perceptions of Talent Development During a Digital Transformation by LaKesha Lake Edwards MS, Purdue University Global, 2012 BS, University of Georgia, 2000 Dissertation Submitted in Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy Industrial-Organizational Psychology Walden University August 2021 Dedication This dissertation is dedicated to my husband, Kern Edwards, and my children, Kenric, Jaden, Madelyn, and Logan, for inspiring my dreams and motivating me to reach my goals. To my parents, Theordis and Don Lake, and my grandmother, Margrette Horton, for your guidance and encouragement. And to my brothers, Dontae, Jermell, and Jerdon, for your love and support. Acknowledgments I would like to express my sincere gratitude to everyone who played a role in my dissertation journey. To my committee chair, Dr. Barbara Chappell, thank you for your advice, encouragement, and patience. Dr. Jason Etchegaray and Dr. James Herndon, thank you for your guidance along the way. Also, I would like to offer a special thanks to my family: Sonjua, Tommy, Rhonda, Arthur, Junior, Daisy, and Danita for believing in me. Lastly, thank you to my friends: Trish, Ebonie, and Denise, for all the great words of encouragement.