Forget product knowledge, IT asset specialists need better communication skills

IT asset management professionals now need legal expertise and negotiation abilities to complement their analytics and product experience.


Analyst Gartner says that until recently, platform and device knowledge was the main requirement for IT asset specialists, however the rapidly changing technology landscape is altering the skill base required.  For example, communications skills are now more valuable than technical expertise.

The belief is that those with good communication skills will be able to build effective relationships with both internal customers and external suppliers, while experience in negotiation will reduce operational and replacement equipment costs.

Gartner does however recognises that technical aptitude is still important, with an understanding of software licence entitlements and the ability to manage performance of devices still seen as valuable.

"Good communicators are often good negotiators, and effective communication skills will ensure that IT asset management can build the important relationships with the finance, legal, procurement and technical specialists (such as enterprise architects) required for an effective ITAM team," says Gartner research director Victoria Barber.