Sandra Balazikova on Digital Learning

"Digital is transforming how we work, learn, and interact with the world."

Sandra Balazikova, a Global Knowledge Management Expert at Dell, reflects on the opportunities and challenges of digital transformation, knowledge management, and the future of learning in a global context.

Q: New technologies have significantly impacted how we work, learn, and interact with the world. How do you perceive this shift?

The change is profound. Looking back at how society, education, and communication worked in the past, it is clear we live in a completely different era. Everything is faster. Communities are more diverse, language is evolving, and information is becoming infinite. We work in flexible hours, in virtual teams, across global roles, and often remotely. We overcome time differences and stay connected 24/7.

On the one hand, technology enables us to make faster and more informed decisions. On the other hand, it brings challenges to our personal lives. That is why training on topics such as work–life balance, values, and digital well-being is essential.

Q: Experts say technology will allow us to learn more easily and quickly. How far are we from this future?

I believe we are already living in it. Technologies have radically changed how we learn. While in the past we relied on libraries and printed publications, today we access information online, often instantly. Universities now offer online programs that allow students to attend lectures from anywhere.

The challenge for educators is not the lack of information, but helping students develop critical thinking – to evaluate content, form opinions, and communicate effectively. Digital learning requires different skills from traditional study, including online presentation and engagement. At the same time, the abundance of information makes it essential to filter what is relevant and reliable.

Q: Do millennials approach work and knowledge differently?

Absolutely. During our internship programs, we observed that when millennials seek answers, their first step is always online. Companies know that digital is the future, and millennials have fully embraced it. For them, knowledge management is inseparable from digital tools and the internet.

Q: Social networks have revolutionized how we use the internet. How does this affect knowledge management?

Social networks have changed not only how we communicate but also how we learn and shop. They have influenced customers’ decisions and created new platforms for employer branding, recruitment, and employee development. For companies, adapting training and knowledge-sharing to these digital channels is essential. Intelligent technologies allow us to expand knowledge faster than ever.

Q: Why integrate intelligent knowledge technologies?

Because knowledge means power – and time is money. The more information we have, the faster and more effective our decisions can be. Intelligent technologies enable this by providing timely and relevant insights.

Q: Mobile devices are now the primary tools for accessing information. What impact does this have on knowledge management?

Mobile devices have fundamentally changed how we access and share knowledge. Today, managers can approve requests, review team data, and manage projects while traveling. This level of flexibility was previously unimaginable. Mobile access has become a cornerstone of knowledge management systems.

Q: Visual information is increasingly replacing long textual content. What is the benefit of this shift?

The sheer volume of information available today means no one has time for lengthy reports. Visual content helps filter and prioritize key messages. Short videos or “knowledge nuggets” can deliver essential insights in minutes, saving hours of training. Visuals, however, need to be culturally sensitive – a pictogram can have different meanings across countries. Companies that manage this effectively are now industry leaders.

Q: Where does the success of knowledge management lie?

Knowledge management is ultimately about cultural change. It takes time for organizations to fully embrace it. Some companies are still in the early stages, while others have fully integrated it into their systems. Success comes when employees trust the accuracy of data and use it confidently to make decisions that drive business and team development.

Q: Many search engines can access vast amounts of information. Why should companies invest in internal tools?

The answer is simple: internal information is not available on public search engines. Companies require secure systems tailored to their specific processes, encompassing everything from performance management to global feedback tools. These in-house platforms protect sensitive data while ensuring employees have access to the right information.

Thank you, Sandra.

About Mrs. Balazikova.

Sandra Balazikova is a Global Knowledge Management Expert at Dell. She has led and co-piloted regional projects, creating platforms and tools for knowledge management across Europe, the US, and China. She received a prestigious award from the company’s founder, Michael Dell. Sandra holds a Master of Finance from the University of Vienna and is a certified expert in Lean-Efficient Management (LSS).

This interview was part of the MENITY Leaders Talk series (2014–2016).

Interview with Mrs. Balazikova, conducted by Mr. Janik, Managing Partner at MENITY.

Photography © MENITY