IT skills portfolio research in SIGCPR proceedings: analysis, synthesis and proposals

ABSTRACT

This paper provides an analysis on information technology (IT) skills portfolio issues from the perspective of firms. The motivation behind this study was our observation that firms are having increasing difficulty in determining their optimal skills portfolio and in acquiring and managing that portfolio in turbulent times. Because a shortage of skilled IT professionals with has been a common theme from the early days of computing, we believe that an analysis of past work using the skills portfolio perspective gives us insights into the gaps where future IS research can illuminate this area. First, the paper reviews 102 IT skills portfolio related papers that appeared in the SIGCPR proceedings between 1985 and 2000. Then the thesis of these papers are summarized and classified according to what skills portfolio firms look for and how they acquire and maintain skills. Particular attention is paid to the gaps in the research to date. Finally, a set of research issues and propositions are given based on the analysis.

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INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  K. Computing Milieux
  K.4 COMPUTERS AND SOCIETY

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

General Terms:
Documentation, Management

Keywords:
IS human resource management, IT careers, SIGCPR proceedings, skill requirements, skills portfolio