Most IT departments think staff lack business knowledge and communication skills, according to research from IT recruiter Parity.

The research found that 58% of managers are frustrated by a perceived lack of business understanding, while 70% say that communication skills and business knowledge are the most critical areas for development within the IT team.

Alan Rommel, managing director at Parity Resources, says: “Managers should consider how they can develop the skills within their IT team so that the business can benefit.

“It is clear from our research that both staff and managers want to develop their skillset and business knowledge so they are better equipped in their job.

“We are witnessing more recruiters wanting to hire all-rounders who can contribute to the business beyond the traditional IT remit.” 

But Nicky Simpson, managing director, IT and healthcare at MSI group, told Recruiterthat the candidate quality had improved due to an influx of IT workers on to the jobs market.

“We have found that the quality of staff has been a lot better. For that reason, it has been quite a good time for us.

“Their business and industry knowledge is a lot better. We are being a lot more particular about who we let through the door to interview. We are looking at people have three years plus interview experience.”