Globalization, offshoring, and offshore outsourcing have resulted in a loss of information technology (IT) jobs and a talent shortage. The general lack of knowledge and absence of consensus on the future of the IT industry has resulted in problems in future career planning. The purpose of the current mixed-method Delphi study was to establish the future direction of the United States IT industry for current professional and potential talent to manage change and career planning. Twenty-three industry experts from the United States participated in the current Web-based study, which involved identifying major IT industry practices, compiling expert opinion, and obtaining consensus on the future direction of the IT industry. The Delphi study method involved three rounds of data collection, analysis through qualitative and quantitative coding of opinion, and feedback to participants to produce a valuable resource for effectively managing change. The recommendation was to pay attention to changing industry trends and continued skill development to build on current experience through education. Leaders in the IT industry could work closely with IT professionals to align organizational and personal goals with the appropriate compensation, retention, and recruitment efforts. The Delphi study result indicated a need for coordinated efforts from IT professionals, potential talent, IT industry leaders, employers, and leaders in educational institutions to manage effectively change for the needs of future talent in the IT industry.
展开▼
