CITI & the World of Software Joyce Plotkin Mass Software Council

Goal for Today What is going on in the software industry today? What does the future hold? What are the implications for higher education?

Changes in the Software Industry Consolidation Convergence Maturing of the industry Software as enabler of new business models Disruptive forces Open Source Offshore Outsourcing

Future of the Industry Glass – half empty or half full? Another wave of innovation – yes or no? Are there any big opportunities left?

Opportunities Wireless Voice, video, imaging Messaging Time-savers/ productivity enhancers Security Open source tools and products Embedded systems Robotics Games Nanotech RFID Intersection of biotech and info tech

Implications for Higher Ed Demand for: IT Purchasing - up IT Workers - shortage anticipated Skills – technical and non-technical

Broad Set of Technical Skills Systems level languages – C++, Java Scripting languages – PERL, PHP, PYTHON C – used in Linux/open source Languages like LISP – for theory Standards – XML, HTTP, SMTP Security Modular software Usability lab experience Understanding of intellectual property

Non-technical Skills Critical thinking skills Good oral/written communications skills Global orientation Flexibility Ability to think outside the box Ability to lead/work in teams Ability to function at Internet speed Ability to take risks Ability to be lifelong learners Business, management, entrepreneurial studies