A Framework for Defining E-Business IT Skills Portfolio

Abstract

When a firm moves from an e-commerce to an e-business enterprise, the technology-driven transformation generates new demand on their IT services and capability. Successful deployment of e-business solutions requires business process change and Internet-based enterprise systems to support inter-enterprise collaboration. These directions challenge firms to re-evaluate their IT skills portfolio. This chapter examines current demand on IT workforce, IT skills portfolio management, changing skill requirements for e-business, and gaps between industry demand and academic preparation. It also addresses trends shaping IT skills for an e-business in terms of architecture, implementation, organizational change, application development, and tools and technology. Based on the review of these issues and trends, a framework is proposed to guide the development of a desired skills portfolio for e-business transformation. The chapter concludes with a research agenda.