By CityTownInfo.com Staff
October 1, 2009
Even while the economic recession has been the source of discouraging news for the high tech industry and continued outsourcing of information technology jobs has threatened IT specialists, there is reason for hope.
In a Computerworld article about IT job security beyond the recession, Adam Lawrence of Yoh, a technology staffing unit of Day & Zimmermann, offers advice to technology professionals on how and where to find long-lasting jobs. For instance, the use of technology is expanding in the rapidly growing field of health care. This will create an ongoing need for people who develop and maintain health-related technology. The insurance industry will likewise require IT specialists. In addition, in the government and defense sectors, many IT workers will continue to be used in the U.S., especially for positions requiring security clearances.
A Forrester Research Inc. study of technology outsourcing firms reported in Computerworld, found that in spite of the fact that many companies are able to save money through outsourcing of IT, there will be continued growth in jobs for IT consultants.
Computerworld, also reports that while over half of the 243 companies surveyed by the Society of Information Management (SIM), cut their budgets this year, 27% predict budget increases for 2010. Although a similar number thinks there will be repeated cuts, the priorities for IT spending are being adjusted. More money will be spent on internal staff and less on buying new hardware. Jerry Luftman, professor and director of information systems programs at Stevens Institute of Technology in Hoboken, NJ, and principal researcher for the survey, says, "Rather than lay off people, they cut equipment."
Lawrence, the optimist, stresses the need for IT workers to develop certain skills to help them become more valuable in the American workplace. He says, "Moving forward, the most important skills for the U.S. IT worker -- whether in health care, government or any other sector -- will be communication and collaboration capabilities. These skills are crucial for people who want to lead and manage projects, teams and outsourcing engagements, and they are invaluable when it comes to furthering your career."
