Eighty four per cent of CIOs are finding it increasingly challenging to find skilled IT professionals according to the latest Robert Half Professional Hiring Index. 

According to nearly half of CIOs surveyed, IT professionals with technical skills in database management are in most demand. This was closely followed by network administration/engineering, Windows administration, desktop support and business intelligence/reporting services.

“IT departments across all sectors are facing a shortage of skilled professionals,” notes Neil Hedges, senior manager at Robert Half Technology (UK). “A shift in technological advancement means that businesses are unable to fill critical back-office roles that support organisational growth and flexibility.  In particular, data management was highlighted as a top requirement by CIOs, as businesses prepare for changes in regulatory requirements such as Solvency II/Basel III, and the huge amount of unstructured data that is being hosted.

“Big data is becoming a significant issue for organisations,” he continues. “Many are struggling to manage the vast amount of information passing through the business, and lack the tools required to analyse it in a reasonable time frame, using conventional techniques. Unfortunately we are experiencing a situation where demand is outweighing supply in certain areas, and companies are struggling to attract the requisite talent to support this change.”  

When asked about the main initiatives planned for the next 12 months, 38 per cent of CIOs said that mobile solutions were top of their agenda. Virtualisation and information risk and security shared the second spot with application development and customer and partner collaboration following.

CIOs plan to upgrade and introduce new technology in 2012, with over half confirming that they planned to invest this year.

“During a period of rapid and often unanticipated change, businesses need to adapt to stay ahead of the curve. Mobile solutions have been a top priority for CIOs, particularly as companies look to provide remote working access for their employees. As new platforms such as cloud computing, tablet computers and smartphones continue to gain momentum, IT professionals skilled in these areas will be in high demand,” says Hedges.