Competencies for information systems workers

Purpose The present study was conducted to identify competencies--knowledges, skills, and attitudes--essential for information systems workers. Information systems competencies should permit workers to successfully maintain and compete for positions in information occupations. Method An initial listing of competencies was developed through the following procedures: an extensive review of related literature; a search of off-line and on-line library sources; interviews with a variety of workers, research authorities, and information systems professionals; input from state directors and programs directors; and an analysis of model curricula. Next, a DACUM (Developing A CurriculUM) committee, composed of sixteen information systems experts, determined broad skill areas and supporting task statements. The broad component areas were identified as follows: BUSINESS SKILLS, COMMUNICATIONS SKILLS, INTERPERSONAL SKILLS, MANAGEMENT SKILLS, PROBLEM SOLVING SKILLS, INTRAPRENEURIAL SKILLS, and TECHNOLOGICAL SKILLS. An eighth category, GENERAL EDUCATION SKILLS, was identified; no competency statements were developed separately for this category.