Reconciling the needs of new information systems graduates and their employers in small, developed countries

Abstract

This paper is the first of a series of studies of a research program aimed at achieving a better fit between university study and professional practise of information systems. The paper reports the results of two surveys: the first of university information systems (IS) students and a second of employers of information systems graduates. Students were asked what they perceived as important technical knowledge, academic knowledge, and personal attributes sought by employers of new IS graduates. Employers and consulting firms that advertised positions for entry-level IS professionals were asked what was actually sought by them in new IS graduates. The results of the two surveys are compared and similarities and differences noted. The present findings indicate somewhat differing perspectives of employers and of students preparing for professional information systems careers. Implications for new graduates and for curriculum planning that takes into account the competing needs of students and employers in the IS field are discussed.