I agree that soft skills are important; in fact they have always been important even though many techies chose to focus their energy elsewhere.

My job has called on me many times to sit between the business and the techies. The business doesn't really care so much what technology is being used to complete the job, just that it is completed. I made the mistake of trying to discuss the details, but quickly realized early in my career that was the wrong path to take. Being able to communicate with the business, yet implement solid solutions with technology, has allowed me to grow in my position. I found that keeping those that want to keep their heads down to the keyboard were better off staying there because it would only create unnecessary tension between the business and IS.

The company I work for has implemented a strategy that IS is not just a technology provider, but a systems and processes provider. We not only install servers and software, but understand why we are doing it and how we can better the business with future enhancements and new solutions.

Oh, and just because there is new technology on the market, doesn't mean it is a good fit for what we are doing. Everything needs to be evaluated. Pushing technology on the business most likely will cause failures. Make sure there is a legitimate need and that the technology fits the need.

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