Computer wizards also need business skills.

We are all familiar with the Hollywood stereotype of "computer geeks"--nerds with thick glasses and plastic penholders who would rather hang out in cyberspace than talk to a human. Despite the snickers, it's these so-called computer nerds, technoids, and cybersurfers who are responsible for maintaining and managing the information systems for some of America's largest corporations. Nevertheless, being a technical wizard alone isn't enough to succeed in the business world.

"In addition to their technical expertise, information systems specialists need business and communication skills to survive in the corporate world, especially when downsizing and outsourcing of computer functions is being used as a vehicle to enhance the bottom line," indicates Clinton O. Longenecker, Stranahan Distinguished Professor of Management, University of Toledo. Along with Jack L. Simonetti, professor of management, and Mark Mulias, vice president of information technology at Aeroquip Corp., Maumee, Ohio, he conducted in-depth focus groups with 75 veteran information technology specialists from three Fortune 500 companies.

The specialists reported that their clients want technical expertise in terms they can understand, reduction of cycle times for projects, cost effectiveness, and better customer service from those running corporate America's massive computing systems. "With widespread usage of personal computers...