Certification Magazine - February 2008 - (Page 38) sionals must identify specific learning needs using skillgap analyses and understand individual learning preferences before selecting and implementing the best methods for increasing team competencies. Learn more about ‘upward mobility’ in IT. CertScope links to two CertMag articles and 10 Web sites on the subject. 5: Financial Considerations in Business Decision Making One of the biggest potential challenges for specialized professionals is a lack of “outcome thinking.” In a technical-only environment, thinking about the financial outcome of specific tasks is probably not a priority. However, specialized professionals competing in today’s economic environment need to understand that financial decisions — at any level — have an effect on the entire organization. It is valuable to know how typical financial statements are used in an organization and how each person’s work contributes to them. For instance, individuals should be able to effectively create or manage a budget, as well as use estimating methods and tools. In addition, it is important to know what organizational metrics will be used to track progress and performance — and how those metrics are used throughout the organization. understand the full range and depth of their disciplines. Their expertise is sometimes cemented in advanced degrees and professional certifications in their specialized knowledge areas. Yet, suddenly, they’re being asked to make the transition from the specialized side to the business and consulting side of the operation. As many organizations have found, these specialized or technically based professionals often make ideal business managers. They understand the mechanics of a project, including how much 6: Taking Charge of Organizational Change As specialized or technically based professionals begin to take on more business-oriented roles, their understanding of the risks, benefits and repercussions of change becomes essential. Positively managing and implementing change within the organization is vital to success. Specialized professionals competing in today’s economic environment need to understand that financial decisions — at any level — have an effect on the entire organization. time certain technical tasks will require, what resources will be involved and how to best complete each task. However, without the right business acumen, technical professionals will not be completely effective. It’s essential that organizations take the necessary precautions to ensure the business knowledge of current and future leaders. Only then will companies truly be able to fully leverage the expertise of their technical professionals. 8 Julie Zinn is senior director of ESI International’s business skills program as well as the professional development of ESI’s sales force. She has a background in management, human resources development and corporate training. She can be reached at editor@certmag.com. Change of any kind can create anxiety and uncertainty because business changes, such as mergers, acquisitions, or staffing increases or decreases, affect each level of an organization. Technical professionals must embrace a mindset that not only welcomes organizational change, but also leverages it to create opportunity for themselves and their organizations. Closing the Gap Clearly, today’s technical professionals need more than analytical expertise to be successful. According to recent studies, this need will only increase in the coming years. Technical experts have invested significant time and money to 38 CERTIFICATION MAGAZINE February 2008 http://www.CertMag.com
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