Digital Technology

This section describes how the digital world evolved. It gives an overview of developments that have significantly shaped different aspects of our society. These resources will help you better understand why and how to adapt to and incorporate technology in your workplace.

Improving your skills with new technologies is much more about attitude rather than the practical skills specific to each tool. Before you learn about the different ways you can develop your skills, you might be interested in looking over the pages on cognitive flexibility and innovation, and the experimentation section of the strategic thinking page.

To develop the digital, technical and operational skills specific to your regular work, consider joining professional networks where your peers can guide you to solutions that fit your needs, like GCcollab, GCconnex, MS Teams, LinkedIn, Twitter, etc.

• Experimentation and Discovery

  Developing your technological agility largely depends on your interest in discovery, in trying new methods and tools, and in learning more about the world of science and technology.

  Do you have a thirst for exploration? Here are our recommended topics for discovery. Use them or the resources below as a starting point for your own journey of exploration.

  • Suggested keywords

    • Computer programming languages
    • The Internet of things
    • Eco-responsible data management
    • Data sharing technologies (e.g., Wi-Fi, Bluetooth)
    • Artificial intelligence-based devices (e.g., virtual assistants)
    • Cloud computing
    • Algorithm development
    • Secure passwords
    • Security software (e.g., antivirus, firewall)
    • Robotics

  Digital Academy’s Bus Rides

  The mission of Busrides is to enhance and develop digital skills. Each episode is a micro-learning experience where learners gain a mastery of digital topics in ways adapted to different learning styles. These blog-style episodes are not intended to develop specialized skills, but to introduce you to the application and to the usefulness of learning digital skills within the GC.

  Duration:

  Variable

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  Reading

  Course ID:

  N/A

    Read Digital Academy’s Bus Rides

  Corporate Subscriptions

  The Mouvement québécois de la qualité (MQQ) and Gartner are platforms to support leaders in their strategic functions through advice, research and tools. ESDC has a corporate subscription to these two platforms that allows you access a host of articles, discussions and events. All you have to do is:

  1. Create an account
  2. Search their catalogue with keywords from the list above

  The Mouvement québécois de la qualité is available in French only and Gartner provides resources primarily in English.

  • https://www.gartner.com/home/feed
  • https://www.qualite.qc.ca/

  Exploration websites

  • https://www.google.ca
  • https://www.youtube.com/
  • https://www.wikihow.com/Main-Page
  • https://www.ted.com/
  • MIX
  • Discuvver
• For Managers: Support Your Employees

  Tech-savvy

  Integrated global technologies are increasingly affecting all aspects of work. Whether it’s Blueprint 2020 or the new focus on results, achieving the vision for government depends on how well executives use IT as a strategic tool and communicate its value.

  Search using the words “Introduction to Technology Savviness” in GCcampus search engine to find this video.

  Duration:

  Variable

  Methodology:

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    Read Tech-savvy

  Profiting from technology

  This step-by-step guide will help you get the most out of technology. You can tailor it to your needs based on your organization. For optimal impact on your business, learn more about how to make technology profitable with minimal investment.

  To download a free version of this guide, you must register on BDC’s website.

  Duration:

  Variable - 26 pages

  Methodology:

  Reading

  Course ID:

  N/A

  e-book available:

  Yes

    Read Profiting from technology

  Digital Competency Development Continuum

  This digital competency tracking tool was developed and made available to the public by the Government of Quebec. Competency is divided into stages: beginner, intermediate and advanced. This continuum assesses skill proficiency and provides topics for discussion and development at each level.

  Use this tool to familiarize yourself with this competency. You can refer to it during performance assessments or professional development decisions for you or your subordinates, as applicable.

  Duration:

  Variable - 40 pages

  Methodology:

  Reading

  Course ID:

  N/A

    Read Digital Competency Development Continuum

  How to overcome resistance to your tech project

  In this Business Development Bank of Canada article, learn seven tips for a successful digital transition. Take advantage of this opportunity to explore other information pages with tips on managing workplace technology.

  Duration:

  Variable

  Methodology:

  Reading

  Course ID:

  N/A

    Read How to overcome resistance to your tech project

Many applications and platforms are available to assist our day-to-day work. Below are some of the applications used at ESDC. Why not give them a try!

• Self-Directed Learning

  You are the master of your development! Visit the different learning platforms listed below to discover learning programs on a variety of topics that may interest you.

  Not sure where to start your digital journey? Select a Digital Academy Course, or a course in the Discovery Series.

  GCcampus

  

  GCcampus is the Canada School of Public Service online learning platform. Visit GCcampus for a wide variety of courses, events, tools, programs and series offered by the School to help you develop your skills.

  For more information on using GCcampus at ESDC, visit the Canada School of Public Service GCcampus page.

    Register GCcampus

  Saba

  

  Saba is the ideal platform for learning at ESDC. The Integrated Learning Management System contains all the learning activities created by and for departmental employees. Use its search system to find training on every topic of interest to you.

  For more information on using Saba at ESDC, visit the Saba page via iService.

    Register Saba

  Coursera

  

  Coursera is an online learning platform where you can find training on a range of topics. Coursera is a partner of over 200 major companies and universities.

  For more information on this tool, visit their About page.

  Coursera offers courses publicly. These courses are available for a fee; manager approval is required prior to registration.

    Register Coursera

  OpenClassrooms

  

  OpenClassrooms is an online learning platform where you can find training on a range of topics. OpenClassrooms specializes in training on communications, information technology and other business skills such as marketing and design.

  For more information on this tool, visit Open Classroom’s What we do page.

  OpenClassroom offers courses publicly. These courses are available for a fee; manager approval is required prior to registration.

    Register OpenClassrooms

  UdeMy

  

  Udemy is an online learning platform containing many course offerings on a host of different topics. Some courses are subject to charges while others are free. The courses are offered by every kind of provider. Make sure to choose your training carefully.

  For more information on this tool, visit the About Udemy page.

  Udemy offers courses publicly. These courses are available for a fee; manager approval is required prior to registration.

    Register UdeMy

  edX

  

  edX is an online learning platform offering you many course options on a wide range of topics. edX is a partner of over 140 universities and academic institutions. The platform is available in English only, although courses are available in French and other languages.

  For more information on this tool, visit the About edX page.

  Edx offers courses publicly. These courses are available for a fee; manager approval is required prior to registration.

    Register edX
• Government of Canada Tools

  GC Tools enable government employees to work smarter and solve problems more effectively by fostering engagement, collaboration, information sharing and innovation.

  GCconnex

  

  GCconnex is a professional networking platform that allows government employees to leverage their expertise and connect through shared experiences, mandates, groups and interests. This tool makes it easier than ever to ask questions, find answers and collaborate. Visit this page to learn how to use and make the most of this platform.

  Note: To access GCconnex, you must use your desktop computer, which is protected by the Government of Canada firewall.

  For more information on this tool, visit the Using GCconnex page. Use “GCconnex” in GCcampus’ search engine to find this page.

    Register GCconnex

  GCpédia

  

  GCpedia is a Government of Canada wiki platform where government employees can share, find and co-create content. Check out this page to learn about the different facets of this platform. Then, you can use it however you like.

  Note: To access GCconnex, you must use your desktop computer, which is protected by the Government of Canada firewall.

  For more information on this tool, visit the Using GCconnex page. Use “GCpedia” in GC campus’ search engine to find this page.

    Register GCpédia

  GCwiki

  

  GCwiki is a Government of Canada wiki platform accessible to everyone to foster content sharing and creation.

  For more information on this tool, visit the Welcome to the GCwiki page.

    Register GCwiki

  GCcollab

  

  GCcollab is your professional collaboration platform connecting you to people and information across the Government of Canada. GCcollab is accessible to students and academics at Canadian universities and colleges, as well as federal, provincial, territorial and municipal employees. Subscribe to some of the many groups available on the platform to keep up with the latest news.

  For more information on this tool, visit the About GCcollab page or the GCwiki page.

    Register GCcollab
• Communication and Collaboration

  The tools below show you different ways to interact with your colleagues. Whether for instant messaging, chatting or videoconferencing, discover the various tools below to learn more.

  Skype

  

  You are probably familiar with Skype, the real-time discussion tool on departmental computers that allows for quick messaging, screen sharing and videoconferencing.

  For more information on this tool, visit the Skype for Business page on iService.

  MS Teams

  

  MS Teams has been available on departmental computers since 2020. Use it to send quick messages, share your screen, share documents and hold videoconferences. MS Teams also incorporates the functionalities of other Microsoft tools that enable you to plan, create surveys, or link, for example.

  For more information on this tool, visit the Microsoft Teams page on iService.

  WebEx

  

  WebEx is a common videoconference and meeting platform used within the Department to deliver virtual training, among other things. WebEx allows screen sharing and videoconference recording.

  For more information on this tool, visit the WebEx Conferencing Service page on iService.

  Zoom

  

  The Zoom application relies primarily on video to communicate with others. Use this platform for collaboration, chats and webinars. It can operate on mobile devices or from a web browser. Zoom can be accessed inside or outside the ESDC network.

  For more information on this tool, visit the information page about Zoom meetings.

  Zoom is a product provided publicly. Tools offered by public institutions are available for a fee; manager and ESDC’s IT experts approval is required prior to use.

    Register Zoom

  Slack

  

  The Slack software program allows quick messaging via the Web, and lets users share documents, agendas and surveys, or make calls via the Internet. Slack is available as a mobile application and via the Web. Slack can also be accessed inside or outside the ESDC network.

  For more information on this tool, visit the Using Slack page.

  Slack is a product provided publicly. Tools offered by public institutions are available for a fee; manager and ESDC’s IT experts approval is required prior to use.

    Register Slack

  Slido (anglais seulement)

  

  Slido is a live survey tool commonly used at ESDC. It allows virtual interaction between event participants and their host(s). Use this tool to ask questions, conduct surveys and create word clouds, for example.

  For more information on this tool, visit the Explore Slido page. Tools are available on SharePoint to support your use of this platform.

  Slido is a product provided publicly. Tools offered by public institutions are available for a fee; manager and ESDC’s IT experts approval is required prior to use.

    Register Slido
• Work organization and Project Management

  The following tools present different ways to manage your tasks and projects, whether done by one person, in small groups, or with multiple partners. From note taking to employee management, the tools presented involve varying levels of complexity that adapt to your needs. Explore and play with them to discover the best solution for you!

  The Project Management Competency Development Program is mandatory for all employees who perform project manager duties. If you perform or would like to perform project management duties, speak to your manager and consult the Departmental Project and Program Management Training page.

  Trello

  

  Trello is an online tool for managing projects and personal tasks. This app helps you organize and assign all aspects of your projects. The option to share your chart lets you collaborate more effectively with your colleagues. If you are an expert in using Trello and want a more complex tool, you may want to consider one of its close relatives: Confluence and Jira, also created by Atlassian.

  For more information on this tool, visit the getting started with trello page.

  Trello is a product provided publicly. Tools offered by public institutions are available for a fee; manager and ESDC’s IT experts approval is required prior to use.

    Register Trello

  Asana

  

  Asana is an online planning and project management tool. It guides you through the management stages of your project and use of the software. Asana is available in Web-based and mobile versions.

  For more information on this tool, visit the get started with asana page.

  Asana is a product provided publicly. Tools offered by public institutions are available for a fee; manager and ESDC’s IT experts approval is required prior to use.

    Register Asana

  Monday

  

  Monday is a tool for planning team tasks, whether for project management, telework, media or software production or even human resources management.

  For more information on this tool, visit the product presentation page.

  Monday is a product provided publicly. Tools offered by public institutions are available for a fee; manager and ESDC’s IT experts approval is required prior to use.

    Register Monday
• Creation and Co-Creation

  “Two brains are better than one!” Use the tools below to work live with your colleagues. For surveys, charts and forums, the tools below offer different options to virtually create images, ideas and solutions on your own or with colleagues.

  Beekast

  

  Beekast is an interactive meeting platform specifically for co-creation. It allows virtual interaction between event participants and with the host(s). Useful for meetings, training, working groups or presentations, this tool provides a space for discussion, survey development and other creative activities, with participants responding in real time.

  For more information on this tool, visit the beekast presentation page.

  Beekast is a product provided publicly. Tools offered by public institutions are available for a fee; manager and ESDC’s IT experts approval is required prior to use.

    Register Beekast

  MIRO

  

  Miro is a real-time co-creation platform. In the form of a large whiteboard, this tool allows you to interact with colleagues in the same workspace.

  For more information on this tool, visit the Miro Features page.

  Miro is a product provided publicly. Tools offered by public institutions are available for a fee; manager and ESDC’s IT experts approval is required prior to use.

    Register MIRO

  Persona par HubSpot

  

  The persona creation tool supports your design needs by helping you create typical personas for your development projects. Use this tool when you want to clearly understand your client and your project’s impact.

  For more information on this tool, visit the “what is a buyer persona?” page.

  HubSpot’s persona creation tool is a product provided publicly. Tools offered by public institutions are available for a fee; manager and ESDC’s IT experts approval is required prior to use.

    Register Hubspot
• Data Manipulation

  Below are a few tools used for data manipulation and visualization. To learn more about data at ESDC and to expand your knowledge of data, visit the Data Literacy page.

  Microsoft Power BI

  

  This application can be used to unify data from many sources. By doing so, you can create dashboards, interactive reports and immersive reports that generate actionable information and results for the organization.

  For more information on this tool, visit the Learn Power BI page.

  To download Microsoft Power BI on your own, visit the Application Catalogue, under the “Commercial Software” tab.

  Sisense

  

  The Sisense infographic development tool allows you to design graphics, reports, organizational charts, banners, etc. to support your visualization needs.

  For more information on this tool, visit the product presentation page or register for a demo.

  Sisense is a product provided publicly. Tools offered by public institutions are available for a fee; manager and ESDC’s IT experts approval is required prior to use.

    Register Sisense

  QlikView

  

  The QlikView infographic development tool allows you to design graphics, reports, organizational charts, banners, etc. to support your visualization needs.

  For more information on this tool, visit the products presentation page.

  QlikView is a product provided publicly. Tools offered by public institutions are available for a fee; manager and ESDC’s IT experts approval is required prior to use.

    Register QlikView

  Venngage

  

  The VENNGAGE infographic development tool allows you to design graphics, reports, organizational charts, banners, etc. to support your visualization needs.

  For more information on this tool, visit the Choose the Perfect Data Visualization page.

  Venngage is a product provided publicly. Tools offered by public institutions are available for a fee; manager and ESDC’s IT experts approval is required prior to use.

    Register Venngage

  Tableau

  

  Tableau is a software program used to analyze the different variables that make up your data. Use this tool to create tables and turn them into charts or dashboards.

  For more information on this tool, visit the Knowledge Base page.

  Tableau is a product provided publicly. Tools offered by public institutions are available for a fee; manager and ESDC’s IT experts approval is required prior to use.

    Register Tableau

  Diagram.net

  

  Are you a diagrams expert? Maybe you are an avid explorer of new tools? Diagrams.net is Draw.io’s no-frills cousin, not big on aesthetics or ground-level explanations, will let you dive right in and create diagrams, flowcharts, processes, etc.

  For more information on this tool, visit the diagrams.net page.

  Diagrams.net is a product provided publicly. Tools offered by public institutions are available for a fee; manager and ESDC’s IT experts approval is required prior to use.

    Register Diagram.net
• Office Suite Tools

  All departmental employees use the Office Suite and its tools daily. Here are some learning opportunities and resources that can help you learn more and maximize your use of these tools.

  OneNote

  

  Are you already using OneNote? OneNote is pre-installed on departmental computers as part of the Microsoft Office Suite of tools. For more information about this tool, visit Getting started with OneNote 2016 on iService. Take the training courses below for an introduction to this tool.

  • Microsoft OneNote 00041140
  • WorkingSm@rt + Microsoft OneNote 0000066971

  Don’t see any available classes? Contact your learning coordinator (NCR) or your Learning Centre.

  Outlook

  

  Outlook is the Department’s chosen email delivery tool. Take the training courses listed below and offered by ESDC to learn more about this tool.

  • Outlook and Time Management 00012049
  • Microsoft Outlook – Advanced 0000071384
  • Working Smart using MS Outlook 00048929
  • MS Outlook Tips & Tricks 10001201

  Don’t see any available classes? Contact your learning coordinator (NCR) or your Learning Centre.

  Excel

  

  Excel is a classification tool used regularly at ESDC. Whether to make a list, categorize data, analyze results or manage projects, Excel is a useful resource. Take the training courses below for an introduction to this tool.

  • Excel Intermediate – Level 2 10001200
  • Excel 2016 Level 3 (Advanced) 00063210
  • Advanced Excel – Dashboards 00061094
  • MS Excel Advanced – Level 3 10001199
  • Microsoft Excel Advanced 00063324
  • MS Excel: Functions 00062979
  • MS Excel advanced - Pivot table 0000070386

  Don’t see any available classes? Contact your learning coordinator (NCR) or your Learning Centre.

  PowerPoint

  

  PowerPoint is the Department’s chosen presentation tool. Used for team meetings, presentations to management, training courses and conferences, this multi-purpose tool deserves to be used effectively. Take the training courses below for an introduction to this tool.

  • Effective PowerPoint Decks and Presentations 0000072107
  • Microsoft PowerPoint – Level 2 & 3 / Advanced 00043928
  • By Design - How to use visuals and narratives to build better decks (C250)

  Don’t see any available classes? Contact your learning coordinator (NCR) or your Learning Centre.

  Publisher

  

  Publisher is a Microsoft Office Suite tool available on departmental computers. This software allows you to create images, infographics and banners using traditional Microsoft tools.

  For more information on Publisher, visit the Publisher help & learning page.

  MS Project

  

  Are you already using MS Project? This tool is used by delegated people or those trained in project management within the Department. The tool is available from Microsoft but is not part of the basic Suite preinstalled on departmental computers.

  • Microsoft Project 2016 – 00059344

  To request a license for MS Project, place a request with the National Service Desk.

  Visio

  

  This app is useful for creating visuals of your projects. You can create organizational charts, diagrams, floor plans, technical designs, etc. You can also share your work directly with your colleagues so they can add their changes simultaneously while you work on your diagram.

  For more information on Visio, visit the Visio help & learning page.

  To request a license for Visio, place a request with the National Service Desk.

  Office Suite User Support

  

  Microsoft offers a wealth of free resources to help you navigate its various tools. This site provides a search engine that you can use to ask your most advanced questions, as well as articles, work tools, videos and training on all the tools in the Office Suite.

  • https://support.microsoft.com/en-CA/