ABSTRACT
Since the 1980s, information technology (IT) has made a substantial impact in the business world. Managers and professionals have had to come to terms with the redefined skills, needs and demands engendered by the new technology. Furthermore, IT has been identified as a strategic weapon which can improve competitive advantage. To take full advantage of this, however, requires planning for the necessary integration of business and IT strategies. The skills factor is also important in this respect, and the growing importance of human resource management (HRM) and human resource development (HRD) in professional organizations has led to a greater awareness that a successful IT strategy also requires relevant and well-directed strategic IT skills training and education provision.
