There was a time when an IT expert was expected to sit isolated in a corner and punch on the keyboard,but now he needs to be conversant and have the necessary social skills in order to be marketable in a global business environment, says Peter Lake,principal lecturer,computing,faculty of ACES,Sheffield Hallam University,as he addresses the audience in attendance at a seminar at the British Library,that is hosting a management week. He adds,It is of vital importance that you can hold a conversation and discuss and understand other individuals. To make a good software,you need to know its end users and their psyche. The expert also shared his views about cloud computing. The concept,he points out,allows others to worry about your computer hassles. Speaking about the prerequisites for a professional who wants to enter the industry,he says,More than hardware knowledge one has to know how to make applications for cloud computing. While professionals need to be familiar with database management,networking,design and infrastructure,Lake says that those who know languages like C++ are also always in demand. The right contacts and an ability to gauge what the market wants can convert you into an entrepreneur, he adds. Nod of agreement comes from Clare Moonan,senior lecturer,international business,Sheffield Business School,Sheffield Hallam University. To be successful,more than bookish knowledge you need to understand the market,human needs and the gap between demand and supply both in terms of the service and business sector, says Moonan,pointing out that discussion forums in colleges fulfill this objective. Lectures are posted online,but for project work we encourage team play. It improves critical thinking and understanding of culture. Different negotiation styles also form an integral part of doing business, says Moonan.
