New research from BT says that women and children are much more at home with new technology than men.

In a pre-Christmas survey, more than 20% of men questioned admitted to being uncomfortable with technology, a problem that bothers less than 10% of women. But most children don't even give it a thought - teenagers are twice as likely to be PC-literate than adults.

Nearly all respondents said the ability to exploit technology was one of the most valuable skills needed at work. Yet 80% of 35 - 55 year olds felt they lacked sufficient skills to get on in their jobs. Even in the generation closest to retirement, the majority felt they weren't too old to learn new skills.

More reason to review current training programmes.

Elliott Chase