The question: Where next when end-to-end
ends?
I am 39 and have worked for large financial firms since
graduating. I develop software, from gathering user requirements
through technical design, development and on to delivery and
support. Following a company merger, such end-to-end involvement in
projects is no longer possible and I am unsure where to go next.
Should I reskill in .net and look for development roles, or should
I focus on technical architect roles?
The solution:Consultancies may prove
interesting
You are at an interesting crossroads. I suspect there is a
weather change on end-to-end development. Certainly within the
financial sector, where there are a lot of acquisitions and mergers
occurring, it would be surprising if your reskilling changed the
fact that this kind of work is no longer going to be open to
you.
Demand remains high for technical architects. All companies use
them, and the role would be far higher paid than your current
position as it requires stronger technical skills.
The financial corporates have been interesting to watch over the
past nine months. The types of roles we have been seeing have
veered towards the business-focused architect, rather than
traditional programmers. This suggests that even if you were to
cross-train to .net your position would not be any stronger.
A move into the consultancies might be interesting. They are
taking on more of the end-to-end work for a range of companies and
you could even find yourself developing for your old company.
Consultancies are keen to recruit individuals with good business
experience. You could work on site for a period or simply be
involved in a number of different projects. Generally speaking, the
variety is greater and the pay better. Well worth a look.
Solution by Tracey Abbott, divisional director, Zarak
Group
The panel: Plan-Net Services, Hudson, Reed Technology, Zarak
Technology, No Limits Coaching, The Training Camp
E-mail your career questions
to computer.weekly@rbi.co.uk