Digital Literacy: Building Skills for a Connected Craft Economy

Awareness and Practical Implementation of Digital Literacy for Small Artisan Enterprises

Program : Training & Capacity Building Initiatives

Organization: Various

Location: Various

Key Outcomes

40 artisans gained foundational digital skills, effectively integrating smartphones into communication, marketing, and financial management.

Improved Communication with Production Teams

Artisans learned to use messaging apps and share information instantly, improving responsiveness between units.

Better Product Photography

Participants gained skills in framing, using natural light, and capturing clear visuals suitable for sharing with buyers or for online promotion.

Enhanced Market Knowledge

Artisans explored online craft marketplaces, helping them understand customer preferences, pricing, and emerging design trends.

Confidence in Digital Banking

Participants learned to check balances, track transactions, and use digital payment tools, enabling greater financial independence.

Empowering entrepreneurial independence

Earlier, I depended on others to send product photos or messages. Now I take my own pictures and share them directly for buyers. It saves time and gives me confidence.

Shukla Sarkar

Stitching unit entrepreneur

Empowering Artisans for a Digital Future: Skills That Strengthen Craft Enterprises

Sarba Shanti Ayog (SSA), working closely with handicraft artisans across multiple craft sectors, identified a growing need for digital awareness and capability in today’s rapidly evolving marketplace. With digital platforms becoming central to communication, marketing, financial transactions, and market research, it became essential to equip artisans with practical digital skills that support their enterprise operations.

To respond to this need, SSA organised Digital Literacy Programmes aimed at enhancing artisans’ understanding and practical use of digital tools.

Programme Overview

The training focused on building foundational digital skills among artisans so they could effectively integrate digital practices into their day-to-day craft activities. A total of 40 artisans participated in the programme.

Key components included:

Using smartphones for communication and coordination
Learning to take high-quality product photographs
Using digital payment applications
Browsing online platforms for market trends and design references
Accessing and managing basic digital banking services

Key Specific Achievements

Greater confidence and independence in using digital tools.
Noticeable improvement in product presentation through quality photography.
Stronger understanding of online market demands and trends.
Ability to make and receive digital payments efficiently.

Conclusion

Through the Digital Literacy Programme, Sarba Shanti Ayog has significantly strengthened artisans’ digital confidence and practical skills. By making digital tools accessible and understandable, SSA has empowered small artisan enterprises to improve communication, enhance product presentation, gain better market insights, and manage financial transactions independently. The programme not only boosts efficiency and self-reliance but also positions artisans to seize new opportunities within an increasingly digital craft economy.

Digital financial freedom

Learning digital payments has made things easier. I can receive payments instantly and check my bank account on my phone without going to the bank.

Rajesh

Sahashram stuffed cotton decorative toys enterprise

View All Case Studies