Selects appropriate technology to achieve different tasks
On this page you'll find links to resources to help you select appropriate technology to achieve different tasks.
Select your current capability level to jump to aligned resources:
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Not at Level 1
Selects appropriate technology to achieve different tasks
Not at Level 1 - I would like to learn about the different devices, systems and apps that are available to me so that I can feel comfortable selecting appropriate technology to achieve the tasks I need to.
The type of device that is most appropriate will depend on how and where you need to use it. This guide covers different types of device and when they are best used: Digital Unite - Types of Computer Devices
The information on this webpage provides useful advice on how to select the right device depending on what you want to do online: Connecting Scotland - How to Choose a Device
You are likely to have access to an email system which you can use to complete communication tasks. These short online modules will help you get started and learn how to use email: Be Connected - Introduction to Email
Microsoft have a range of apps that might be available for you to use at work to complete specific tasks. Explore the following links to find out more about these and what they can be used for:
You may need to use online phone calls and video chat within your role. To find out more use these online guides: age uk - A beginner's guide to video calling and Lloyds Bank Academy - Video calling.
For further resources, visit the Using Technology page of the Digital and Data Resource Hub.
Level 1
Selects appropriate technology to achieve different tasks
Level 1 - I know about the different devices, systems and apps that are available to me and am comfortable to select appropriate technology to achieve the tasks I need to.
Explore these computer essentials technology guides to understand the different devices, systems and apps which you may use within your work or personal life: Digital Unite - Computer Essentials
To learn more about the functionality of different Microsoft apps in order to select the best technology to achieve your tasks, have a look at these support webpages from Microsoft:
- Microsoft - Word Help & Learning
- Microsoft - PowerPoint Help & Learning
- Microsoft - Excel Help & Learning
- Microsoft - Outlook Help & Learning
- Microsoft - Teams Help & Learning
- Microsoft - Forms Help & Learning
To help you decide when email or instant messaging is most appropriate, read this online article which includes the pros and cons of both communication tools: Spike - Email vs Instant Messaging - What’s the Difference?
This guide provides an overview of different online file storage options. Use this information to help you identify the most appropriate solution for the task you are trying to achieve: Digital Unite - A Guide to Online File Storage
For further resources, visit the Using Technology page of the Digital and Data Resource Hub.
Level 2
Selects appropriate technology to achieve different tasks
Level 2 - I am familiar with a range of different devices, systems and apps and I understand some of the risks involved with their use (e.g. biases in artificial intelligence software). I can evaluate their functionality and mitigate risk to determine the most appropriate to achieve a task or desired outcome.
To find out about the functionality offered by the many different Microsoft apps and how these can be used to achieve different tasks, browse through these Microsoft app support pages. Each app has it's own help and learning area where you'll find 'how to' guidance and handy video demonstrations: Microsoft - Microsoft Products and Apps Support
Consider the tasks you carry out and explore ways that these could be done more efficiently using different devices, systems and apps: OpenLearn - The Right Tool for the Job
Think about the new digital skills, systems and technology that you could learn to improve the ways that you think and work in this evolving digital age. Check out this resource to understand what digital skills should be on your radar to help you achieve your tasks: LearnFree - Top Digital Skills You Must Learn in 2026
For further resources, visit the Using Technology page of the Digital and Data Resource Hub.
Level 3
Selects appropriate technology to achieve different tasks
Level 3 - I have detailed knowledge of different devices, software and apps and I proactively look for new technologies. I have a good understanding of the potential risks of using technology and am able to explain these to other people, supporting them to select appropriate technology to meet their needs.
To find out about new functionality across Microsoft apps or to learn about apps you haven't used before, have a look at these Microsoft support pages. Each app has it's own help and learning area where you'll find 'how to' guidance and handy video demonstrations: Microsoft - Microsoft Products and Apps Support
One of the most commonly discussed new technologies is artificial intelligence (AI). To develop your understanding of the risks associated with AI and how it can be used safely in your organisation, have a look at this guidance: Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) - Artificial Intelligence
Explore different AI tools which currently exist to see which tool may assist you with your work: LearnFree - Choosing the Right AI Tools for Your Tasks
For further resources, visit the Using Technology page of the Digital and Data Resource Hub.