Microsoft, a tech giant with a legacy spanning several decades, continues to evolve and drive innovation in the ever-expanding technology landscape. From its initial role as a provider of software and microprocessors, Microsoft has grown into one of the world’s leading tech companies. This journey, marked by constant innovation, tenacity, and adaptability, serves as an inspiration for businesses worldwide aspiring to reach similar heights through digitalization.
With a presence in Singapore for over 32 years, Microsoft is dedicated to helping local businesses achieve success in the digital era. According to Kevin Chan, Chief Partner Officer for Global Partner Solutions at Microsoft Singapore, the company acknowledges that businesses are always seeking new ways to challenge the status quo and find innovative solutions to their most complex challenges.
Digitalization entails more than just adopting the right solutions; it also requires well-trained employees capable of harnessing these tools effectively. Microsoft’s annual Work Trend Index report reveals that 76% of people in Singapore currently lack the digital skills needed to perform their work, slightly higher than the Asia Pacific average of 71%.
Recognizing the importance of upskilling the workforce, Microsoft collaborates with organizations like SkillsFuture Singapore, dedicated to training local workers, to provide customized talent development programs such as Microsoft’s “Let’s Skill Up.” Additionally, Microsoft’s long-standing presence in the local ecosystem enables it to work closely with both the public and private sectors.
The company collaborates with the Singapore government on initiatives like the SkillsFuture Work-Study Program to facilitate job placements and supports private organizations like Generation SG, a global non-profit, in workers’ career development.
Alongside Digital Industry Singapore, the Infocomm Media Development Authority, and SkillsFuture Singapore, Microsoft and its partners launched #GetReadySG, a program aimed at upskilling, placing, and filling the demand for tech-enabled jobs. This program, initiated in 2020, has already impacted nearly 400 SMEs and 700 individuals.
In addition to upskilling the workforce, Microsoft assists businesses in applying new digital solutions. Medical equipment manufacturer Fong’s Engineering, for instance, reached out to Microsoft during the COVID-19 pandemic. Fong’s desired to streamline its internal processes while minimizing potential disruptions to ongoing operations, a critical concern for a company that provides essential medical equipment.
With Microsoft’s guidance, Fong’s connected operational technology with software, enabling automation and remote control. Interactive dashboards powered by Microsoft’s technology allowed real-time monitoring of operations and rapid responses to changes or incidents. Through Microsoft Power Platform, Fong’s reduced manual work by creating HR management and capital expenditure management platforms.
Joseph Wong, Director of Technology and Transformation at Fong’s Engineering, highlighted the collaborative effort with Microsoft, saying, “We’re really glad we worked with Microsoft to build all of this. Ultimately, it wasn’t just about how it had the solutions we needed but also how we worked together to apply them.” This partnership underscores Microsoft’s commitment to empowering businesses on their digital transformation journey.
