Industry perceptions of the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed by computer programmers

ABSTRACT

In a day and age where computer information systems permeate virtually every facet of society, organizations find it difficult to hire adequate numbers of computer personnel. Judging by the number of `quick-fix' organizations that offer training in “weeks rather than years” and the number of individuals that each claims to train per year, the shortage would seem to come from a lack of adequate skills rather than a lack of applicants. This paper reports the findings of an study designed to identify the knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) needed by one group of information technology (IT) personnel — the computer programmer.

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INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  K. Computing Milieux
  K.6 MANAGEMENT OF COMPUTING AND INFORMATION SYSTEMS

Additional Classification:
  K. Computing Milieux
  K.3 COMPUTERS AND EDUCATION

General Terms:
Documentation, Management

Keywords:
business skills, computer programmer, soft skills, technical skills, workforce shortage