Cloud computing is ushering in a new IT skill set.
1. Learn the Language of Business
One
of the big changes brought on by Cloud computing is the need to
interface with the C-Suite to communicate how Cloud technologies will
impact C-level priorities. These days, IT professionals can't simply
possess technical know-how and operate independent from the rest of the
business. It's no imperative that IT professionals know how to
communicate technology needs and benefits to a C-Suite that has varying
levels of technical expertise. For instance, it may be necessary to
explain security how a Cloud application will remain just as secure as
an on-premise application.
2. Focus on Coding and Development
Because
the Cloud--and straightforward development networks like Ruby--greatly
simplify application deployment and development, there's a growing need
for IT professionals that can code, develop and deploy an application.
Since there is a current absence of next-gen development talent, this
presents an opportunity for the IT community. However, taking advantage
of this opportunity will require learning popular programming languages
such as PHP, Ruby, JAVA or .NET.
3. Gain Expertise in Cloud Integration Technologies
In
addition to understanding how to develop Cloud applications, IT
professionals need to understand how to connect them and manage
information flow. IT professionals should be familiar with third-party
Cloud-based integration services such as Boomi and Informatica.
Additionally, it's important to know integration appliances such as Cast
Iron. When these tools are not enough, the IT department will be
expected to build custom integrations using SOAP, RESTful APIs and
custom integration servers.
4. Become A Mobile Security Expert
The
proliferation of smartphones creates a significant need for IT
professionals that understand how to manage mobile security. While the
industry is leaning toward OAuth certification standards, there is no
accepted standard for managing mobile security. This means that IT
professionals will be expected to stay on the cusp of emerging security
technologies to manage permissions and access from work and personal
mobile devices.
5. Obtain a Cloud Certification from One or More Providers
The
last area that I believe the IT community should focus on vetting their
Cloud skill set. While it's not a particular skill, certifications
carry weight in the IT world. There are many providers currently
offering certification. Amazon, Salesforce, Rackspace, CompTia and
others all offer varying levels of Cloud certifications.
About the Author: Derek Singleton is an ERP Analyst at Software Advice-- a website that reviews the top ERP software.
Derek graduated from Occidental College in 2010 with a degree in
political science. He reports on technologies, topics and trends related
to the enterprise software market.
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