The traditional image of IT departments working away in isolated
basements will have change, according to research in six different
business sectors.
IFF Research found
that IT workers are now typically creative, world-aware, and
business-savvy because of the growth in online trading.
IT workers are now a central part of the wider workforce and
drive future development in sectors including retail, transport and
finance the research report said.
Researchers interviewed senior executives in the fields covered
by six sector skills councils including Skillmart Retail, E-Skills,
Go Skills and People 1st.
The study found that companies with well-developed websites have
a multi-disciplinary e-commerce team driving a multi-channel
business.
Ian Wheeler, research manager at
Skillsmart Retail,
which led the research, said the study had uncovered a new take on
IT.
"Online trading is now an integral part of many businesses and
IT must be woven throughout the business to make sure they can
provide an online presence that fits in with the company's culture,
aims and strategies," he said.
According to Wheeler, this means business people must be much
more knowledgeable about IT and IT workers need to show they not
only have the necessary technical skills, but also creative and
business knowledge.
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