Job Description:

In summary

IT consultants perform different roles in different organisations. Broadly, they work with clients to solve their business challenges and improve efficiency through the use of information technology. Consulting offers varied assignments, and can be a fulfilling and exciting field for professionals with the right personal characteristics and skills.

An IT consultant may

• meet with clients to determine requirements, and work with clients to determine what needs to be done
• prepare proposals and tenders
• analyse problems and make recommendations
• be accountable for defined assignments or projects. These often involve immediate action or short term planning of human and other resources
• liaise with staff at all levels of an organisation
• project manage the design and implementation of a chosen solution, ensuring it meets user requirements and are delivered on time
• organising training

• An IT-related bachelor degree
• Business or management training is advantageous
• Many branches of the ACS run a consultant and contractors special interest group, which offers a variety of professional development opportunities in this field

• possess excellent oral and written communications skills and interpersonal skills
• have an ability to adapt and apply existing techniques and methodologies to new users
• a high standard of ethics and integrity
• effective selling, negotiation, customer management and time management skills
• sound administrative skills and good analytical and reporting abilities
• an understanding of user needs
• can think outside the box

According to the 2006 ACS Remuneration Report, the median base salary for IT Consultants with less than three years experience is $43,000, rising to $112,000 for those with 10 to 15 years experience.

The diverse nature of the IT industry means that career development could entail progression in a number of fields and across sectors. It is predicted that in the future, the job market for 'pure' IT specialists will shrink in favour of individuals carrying out multidisciplinary assignments in more versatile roles. In this environment, the opportunities for career development for IT consultants are immense.

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Career Path:

Starting out

An IT consultant would typically have at least 3-5 years experience in information technology, ICT systems, systems design or integration. Consulting generally requires a blend of technical, commercial, management and consulting skills.

Going towards

A senior principal consultant would typically require 10-15 or more years experience in business management, IT, systems integration consulting and design. Some consultants go on to become an IT

“If you like being thrown into new and sometimes very complex situations on a daily basis, talking to all levels of the business and technical worlds, and working out solutions that meet both needs, then consulting may well be your career.” - Stephen Fischer, Senior Consultant, Acumen Alliance