The SHIFT4IT project consortium is proud to announce the development of a comprehensive curriculum tailored to educate project managers in the IT sector. This curriculum is the result of extensive research and collaboration with industry experts and employers from 4 European countries (Belgium, Croatia, Italy and Romania). By integrating key insights and recommendations from the field, we have designed a program that addresses the competencies and skills deemed most essential by IT companies.
Grounded in Research
The curriculum is based on findings from a two-step research process involving:
- A questionnaire was completed by 62 experts from 56 IT companies across Belgium, Croatia, Italy, and Romania, to define the necessary skills and knowledge for IT project managers.
- Focus groups with selected employers to gain deeper insights into the traits, experiences, and specific competencies required for success in IT project management.
A Curriculum Aligned with Industry Needs
Our program includes modules on:
- Programming Fundamentals: Basics of coding and algorithms.
- UX/UI Design: Understanding user needs and creating intuitive designs.
- Project Management: Covering planning, risk management, and team coordination.
- Agile Methods: Emphasizing iterative development and continuous improvement.
Employer-Driven Competencies
Our curriculum incorporates the skills and attributes that employers prioritize for IT project managers, including:
- Leadership and Team Management: Inspiring teams, resolving conflicts, and fostering collaboration.
- Communication Skills: Effectively communicating with technical and non-technical stakeholders, clients, and team members.
- Problem-Solving and Decision-Making: Analytical thinking under pressure.
- Technical and Business Knowledge: Familiarity with IT terminologies, Agile methodologies, and project budgeting.
- Adaptability and Continuous Learning: Staying current with industry trends and navigating evolving project demands.
Feedback and Recommendations
Employers provided positive evaluations of the proposed curriculum, emphasizing its alignment with real-world IT project management needs. Key recommendations led to the inclusion of:
- IT Security and Compliance: Addressing privacy regulations like GDPR.
- Cloud Computing Fundamentals: Understanding modern infrastructure practices.
- Enhanced Soft Skills Training: Conflict resolution, negotiation, and motivational techniques.
- B2B Skills: Effective client communication and relationship management.
- Internships: Hands-on experience to bridge theoretical learning with practical application.
Key Insights and Conclusion
The research highlighted that while technical knowledge is valuable, employers place significant importance on managerial and communication skills. Specific technical expertise is often learned on the job, making adaptability and the ability to manage diverse teams crucial for project managers.
Our curriculum aims to address the IT talent gap by equipping aspiring project managers, particularly women from non-technical backgrounds, with the skills and confidence needed to thrive in the dynamic IT sector. With over 90% of surveyed employers expressing interest in hiring graduates of this program, we are confident in its relevance and impact.
This initiative is a step forward in shaping the future of IT project management, bridging gaps, and fostering diversity in the industry.
