Bridging Traditional Skills and Technology: Transforming Secretarial Practices for Modern Organisations

Abstract

This study examined how traditional secretarial skills can be effectively integrated with modern technology to enhance organisational performance. A total of 44 studies covering the period of 1951 to 2025 were used as data sources. The study addressed the evolution of secretarial practices, the integration of digital tools into administrative practices, emerging competences required in contemporary organisations, the organisational implications of digital transformation, and strategies of professional development and institutional support. Existing theories and empirical findings were examined to understand current trends and developments in the secretarial profession.The study revealed that while traditional secretarial functions such as typing, shorthand, filing, scheduling, and correspondence management once relied heavily on manual systems, modern administrative environments are increasingly digital, automated, and interconnected. As such, contemporary secretarial professionals are now expected to manage electronic records, coordinate virtual meetings, utilise enterprise software, support digital communication systems, and contribute to organisational information management strategies. This paper concludes that the sustainability of the secretarial profession depends on continuous professional development, institutional investment in digital infrastructure, and adaptive capacity among administrative professionals. This paper therefore recommends that all stakeholders involved should emphasise continuous ICT training programmes, curriculum updates in education, supportive leadership, change management, and the provision of clear policies and ethical guidelines.