Problem

The Caribbean region, particularly its micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), faced significant challenges in accessing and leveraging digital technologies effectively. This was exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which emphasized the critical need for digital skills and infrastructure to ensure business continuity and competitiveness. MSMEs, especially women-led firms, struggled with identifying productive digital opportunities, evaluating their risks, and appropriating full value from the digital economy due to various barriers including low digital capabilities, limited human capital, information asymmetry, and inadequate ICT services.

Velsoft’s Innovative Solution

Velsoft, a Canadian-based educational technology firm with over two decades of experience in developing online institutes and eLearning platforms, was chosen to design and develop the E-Learning Management Platform (ELM) for the Caribbean Digital Transformation Institute (CDTI). Their proposal promised not just to meet the project’s specifications but to exceed them by delivering a comprehensive, tailored eLearning solution.

Velsoft’s approach was holistic, beginning with an in-depth analysis of digital maturity profiles facilitated by their innovative Digital Check-up tool. This tool assesses the digital maturity of an enterprise and recommends customized learning paths based on the specific needs and digital readiness of the business. Velsoft’s ELM was designed to be highly user-friendly, promoting ease of access and seamless navigation, ensuring that MSMEs could effectively utilize the platform regardless of their previous digital experience.

Implementation and Impact

Velsoft’s implementation strategy was robust, involving the integration of their state-of-the-art ELM with asynchronous learning courses tailored to the digital maturity of each user. This allowed businesses to progress at their own pace and according to their specific needs. The platform also included features like live eLearning editing technology, a virtual classroom, and a direct-to-eLearning conversion technology, which were innovative solutions that provided MSMEs with practical, interactive, and immediate learning experiences.

The impact of Velsoft’s solution on the Caribbean digital landscape was profound. The ELM platform effectively bridged the digital skills gap among MSMEs, enabling them to enhance their digital capabilities and become more competitive in the global market. Velsoft’s work notably supported the digital transformation of the private sector in the Caribbean by providing MSMEs with the tools necessary to survive and thrive in a digital-first world.

Results

Velsoft’s contribution to the Caribbean Digital Transformation Institute exemplifies their commitment to enhancing education through technology. Their innovative solutions not only addressed the immediate needs of the Caribbean MSMEs but also laid down a foundation for continuous learning and adaptation in the digital age. The success of this project highlighted Velsoft’s role as a leader in eLearning development and as a crucial partner in the region’s ongoing digital transformation efforts.