News

Gartner: How to get ahead in 2003

• By Michael W. Bucken
• January 8, 2003

It's been a tough couple of years for IT professionals. Spending is down, positions have been cut and projects are outsourced overseas all in an effort to cut costs during difficult times. With that in mind, a group of Gartner Inc. analysts began 2003 with a list of eight resolutions that can help IT personnel of all ranks keep their careers on track.

In 2003, the IT career blueprint has clearly become business-focused as top management is looking hard to determine the business value of IT when costs must be kept in check.

Gartner Vice President and Research Director Diane Morello contends that focusing only on technology will put IT development personnel at some risk through 2003. Corporate executives will seek out and promote only those IT managers who demonstrate a clear knowledge of technology that can then be used to help the company achieve its business goals, she said.

The eight 2003 resolutions are as follows:
1) IT managers and workers should take inventory of their technology and business knowledge, and should be honest about weaknesses.

2) Learn about the key drivers of the company's business. Build awareness by examining corporate press releases, annual reports and public statements. Become a business knowledge liaison to executives.

3) Identify required services and help to implement them in the effort to drive the success of the business. Integration, process insight and versatility are watchwords for 2003.

4) Become an ''evergreen'' professional. Pursue emerging and enduring knowledge, competencies and experiences to keep up with constant changes in technology and business. Stay aligned with the strategic road map of your organization.

5) Seek leadership opportunities and accountability. Reach out to business units. Mergers and acquisitions, consolidation and globalization will increase the number of projects and internal initiatives.

6) Strengthen knowledge of business principles and know-how to enhance your career and increase your credibility in business units.

7) Get connected with and network with IT project leaders and champions.

8) Find new value in prior IT investments. Revisit the applications and technologies that have been deployed and re-apply functions and features. Completing this resolution depends on newfound knowledge of business processes, customer markets and financial goals.