IT skills are still undervalued in the boardroom

One year on from the Leitch Review, the survey found that business leaders still view IT as a key skill that is more relevant to future generations than those currently in employment. Skills such as team working and problem solving are seen as more important.

More than 500 business leaders were quizzed for the survey, which also revealed that younger business decision makers were more likely to value IT highly. Twenty eight per cent of those aged 25 to 34 ranked IT as one of the most important skills for business success, against an average of 23%.

The survey showed that business chiefs consider IT skills more important for future success than they are today. When asked which skills would be crucial for job success in 10 years' time, IT was considered the second most important skill, behind team building and interpersonal skills, with 24% of respondents ranking it as their top skill.

Microsoft said, "Although IT skills are struggling to gain traction in the board room, they will be increasingly important for future business success. Importantly, the research also reveals that the most successful people in business will be those that combine IT skills with core skills such as team working and interpersonal skills."

Stephen Uden, head of skills and economic affairs at Microsoft UK, said, "For the IT industry, the view held by business leaders presents both challenges and a significant opportunity."