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INDECS, Vol. 24 No. 4, 2026.

Original scientific paper

https://doi.org/10.7906/indecs.24.4.9

Analysing the Future Workforce Profile in the Light of Digital Transformation and Innovative Business Models in the Digital Era

László Arany orcid id orcid.org/0000-0002-2956-7305 ; University of Debrecen Doctoral School of Management and Business, Debrecen, Hungary *
Laura Mihály-Karnai orcid id orcid.org/0000-0002-9216-6504 ; University of Debrecen, Faculty of Economics and Business, Institute of Economics, Department of Agricultural Economics, Debrecen, Hungary
Péter András Popovics ; University of Debrecen, Faculty of Economics and Business, Institute of Economics, Department of Agricultural Economics, Debrecen, Hungary

* Corresponding author.

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Abstract

This study considers the contribution of digital competences in forming the future workforce within the European Union in the context of digital transformation and emerging business models. The research combines bibliometric mapping based on the Web of Science database (visualised using VOSviewer) with data-driven analysis of Eurostat data for 2021, 2023, and 2025. The findings reveal a steady increase in the proportion of individuals with at least basic digital skills (from 56,30% in 2021 to 61,02% in 2025), confirmed by repeated measures ANOVA indicating a statistically significant time effect. Despite overall progress, substantial disparities persist throughout Member States. Western and Northern European countries consistently outperform Eastern and Southern regions, reflecting structural differences in education systems, digital infrastructure, and policy effectiveness. The results highlight that digital competences are strongly associated with labour market adaptability, employability, and the ability to engage with innovative business models. The study contributes to the literature by integrating structural, temporal, and regional perspectives as well as draws attention to the need for targeted policy interventions to reduce the digital divide and support convergence within the EU.

Keywords

digital competences; digital transformation; labour market trends; workforce

Hrčak ID:

347880

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/347880

Publication date:

31.8.2026.

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