Digital transformation is no longer a future ambition - it’s a current imperative. Across accountancy, legal, financial and consultancy firms, businesses are reassessing how they use data, integrate technology, and prepare their people for the future.
Through ongoing research and conversations with professionals and business leaders across the UK, it’s clear that the convergence of digital skills, data literacy and strategic capability is reshaping expectations in every part of the professional services sector.
As one managing partner told us, “Five years ago, we talked about digital transformation. Now, it’s about digital performance. Our clients expect it, our competitors are doing it, and our talent demands it.”
The value of data has shifted, so must our skills
Data is now central to the success of professional services firms. But while many organisations have invested heavily in tools, platforms and systems, a common challenge remains: how to unlock the value of data through people.
Too often, data is still seen as “something IT does”.
“Everyone talks about being data-driven, but if your people aren’t confident using data, you’re just collecting numbers.”
But the reality is that professionals at all levels need to engage with data, interpreting it, questioning it, and using it to guide decisions.
“Everyone talks about being data-driven,” noted a senior leader at a mid-tier accountancy firm, “but if your people aren’t confident using data, you're just collecting numbers.”
Developing confidence in data use requires more than software training. It means building a culture of data fluency where professionals understand the questions data can answer, and the limitations it may have. This is where structured development programmes and apprenticeships are helping to make a lasting impact.
Apprenticeships as a strategic response
For many firms, apprenticeships have become a key part of their digital strategy. Programmes such as the Level 3 and 4 Data Apprenticeships, the Business Analyst with AI apprenticeship, and the Information Communications Technician standard are helping organisations:
- Recruit digital natives with fresh thinking and curiosity
- Upskill existing colleagues to better use data and technology in their roles
- Create clearer progression routes into digital and data-focused positions
A partner at a national consultancy shared, “Our data apprentices have become some of our most valued team members, not just because of their technical knowledge, but because they ask questions others don’t.”
Unlike traditional training models, apprenticeships provide development that is applied, ongoing, and contextualised to the business. This helps individuals gain confidence while delivering value from day one.
Technology is everyone’s business
AI, automation and cloud computing are transforming the way services are delivered, but the success of these technologies depends on people.
From billing and time-tracking software to document automation and data visualisation tools, there is growing pressure for teams to not only use technology, but to optimise it.
“It’s not just about knowing what the tool does, it’s about asking how we can use it differently, more efficiently, and in a way that creates better outcomes for clients.”
As one digital transformation lead put it, “It’s not just about knowing what the tool does, it’s about asking how we can use it differently, more efficiently, and in a way that creates better outcomes for clients.”
Apprenticeships focused on IT and technology infrastructure, such as the Information Communications Technician programme, are helping firms develop that vital layer of digital capability, creating internal experts who can troubleshoot, train others, and drive adoption.
Looking ahead: skills for the next five years
Digital skills are not just about current tools, they are about adaptability. The most successful firms in our research are those building teams that are open to change, curious about technology, and confident with data.
In our conversations, three recurring priorities emerged:
- Embedding data literacy across all functions, not just specialists
- Creating pathways into digital roles for those with diverse backgrounds
- Using apprenticeships strategically to fill skills gaps and future-proof capability
“The most successful firms are building teams that are open to change, curious about technology, and confident with data.”
Firms that recognise these imperatives are not just adapting to change, they are leading it.
Final thoughts
The digital imperative is not a one-off project, it’s an ongoing evolution. Data, technology and digital capabilities are now critical to how professional services firms operate, compete and grow.
Through research and insight gathered from business leaders, it’s clear that the firms embracing apprenticeships and targeted digital training are creating a more agile, capable workforce, one equipped to turn transformation into performance.
Kaplan’s data and technology apprenticeships are designed to empower your organisation with the skills it needs to succeed in a digital world. Find out more by visiting our data and technology apprenticeships page or get in touch with one of our experts to address your organisation’s specific needs.