Microsoft Canada Survey Reveals Importance of Employee Training for Small Business Success

A recent national survey conducted by Microsoft Canada, in partnership with Ipsos-Reid, has shed light on the significance of employee training for small businesses in Canada. The survey, which polled 863 small business owners across Canada, found that 86% believe training is crucial to maintaining a competitive edge. Furthermore, 70% of respondents expressed a desire for their employees to enhance their technology and software skills.

Key Takeaways:

• 86% of Canadian small businesses consider training highly important for maintaining a competitive advantage.
• On average, small businesses spend $900 per year on employee education.
• A majority (70%) of small business owners want their employees to improve their technology and software skills.
• 33% and 36% of small business owners cite lack of time and money, respectively, as barriers to implementing training programs.
• Microsoft Small Business + offers a free online resource with access to over 100 software modules and 30 hours of business and technology training.

Statistics:

• 86% of small business owners consider training highly important for maintaining a competitive advantage.
• 70% of small business owners want their employees to enhance their technology and software skills.
• On average, small business owners spend $900 per year on employee education.
• 33% and 36% of small business owners cite lack of time and money as barriers to implementing training programs.
• Microsoft Small Business + offers access to over 100 software modules and 30 hours of business and technology training.

Sources:

• Microsoft Canada Co. press release via CCNMatthews, September 12, 2006.
• Ipsos-Reid online poll of 863 small business owners across Canada, conducted in July 2006.
• Microsoft Canada About Us page.
• CCNMatthews article, "Microsoft Canada Announces Partnership with Ipsos-Reid Polling Institute".