IT workforce report

Concerns over the future IT workforce led the Society of Information Management to study the skills needed today and in the future. More than 20 academics participated in the research, and SIM earlier this month released its report, “The Information Technology Workforce: Trends and Implications 2005-2008.”

The findings show that the IT workforce will remain basically unchanged from 2005 to 2008. However, companies will increasingly be using blended sourcing strategies and will increase reliance on third-party providers and independent contractors. Baby Boomer retirements will not yet have an impact in IT demand or hiring except for purposes of succession planning.

In terms of skills; business skills and capabilities, and project management are among the most important skills to currently keep in-house. The study projects a slight shift from business domain skills to project management skills by 2008. Employers also plan to hire more at the mid-level than entry-level. IT managers are worried about the supply of mid-level candidates to fill architect, project management and general management positions.

The report also examines inputs to the workforce as well as outreach and investment. Among the strategies of grooming future IT employees are to provide meaningful information to guidance counselors, educators, parents and college faculty, boost public/private collaboration and help IT practitioners invest in their own skill attainment.

You can download the executive summary of the report from SIM’s site. SIM members can download the complete report here.