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Myths, unethical practices, personnel requirements: What do computer industry professionals really believe?
CONTROVERSY CORNER
It is the intention of the Journal of Systems and Software to publish, from time to time, articles cut from a different mold. This is one in that series. The object of the “Controversy Comer” articles is not so much to present information as to stimulate thought. Topics chosen for this coverage are not traditional formal discussions of research work, but
rather are informal presentations of key issues in the systems and software world. This series will succeed only to the extent that it stimulates not just thought, but action. If you have a strong reaction to the article that follows, either positive or negative, write to Robert L. Glass, Editor, Journal of Systems and Software, Computing Trends, P.O. Box 213, State College, PA 16804. We will publish the best of the responses as “Controversy Revisited.”
Myths, Unethical Practices, Personnel Requirements: What Do Computer Industry Professionals Really Believe? Hershey H. Friedman Department of Economics, Brooklyn College of the City University of New York
Linda Weiser Friedman Department of Statisticsand Computer Information Systems, Baruch College of the City University of New York
A systematic random sample of 100 Fortune 500 companies was surveyed by telephone. The individuals contacted were in charge of the computer center and were asked to list the biggest myths in the computer industry, the major unethical practices in the computer industry, and the most important requirements for new graduates entering the industry. Respondents felt that the major myth revofved around the belief that computers are “magical” and can do everything without human input. The major unethical practice dealt with piracy of copyrighted software, and the major background requirement for new graduates was practical experience. The paper discusses these and other responses.
Address correspondence to Prof. Linda Weiser Friedman, Dept. of Statistics and Computer Information Systems, Baruch College, 1367 57th St., Brooklyn, NY 11219.
1. INTRODUCTION
Educators in the computer-related disciplines, unlike their colleagues in many other quantitative/analytical disciplines, must constantly be attuned to the everchanging needs of the industry served. Perhaps more than in any other field, courses in the computer disciplines stand ready to incorporate new ideas, focus on practical solutions to real and pressing problems, and regularly undergo a complete overhaul. There are many issues of continuing interest and controversy in the computer industry. Some that are of particular interest to students in business programs are the prevalent myths and unethical practices in the industry and recommended background requirements for new graduates in the field. In these areas, it is the authors’ belief that a systematic evaluation of the perceptions of professionals in the field is a necessity. 151
The loumal of systems aod software 10. 151-153 (1989) @ 1989 Elsevier Science Publishiig Co., Inc.
0161212/89/$3.50
152
The current study addresses these issues as represented by the following questions: 1) What are the major common myths that abound in the computer industry as perceived by professionals in the industry? Which of these so-called myths are most frequently mentioned? 2) What are the most commonly perceived unethical practices? Which of these unethical practices are most frequently mentioned by computer professionals? 3) What are the most important requirements for new graduates in the computer field?
2. METHOD A systematic random sample of Fortune 500 companies in the manufacturing and service fields was taken. The sample was limited to firms in the greater metropolitan New York area. The rate of response was 70%) and the resulting number of respondents was 100. The individuals contacted in the telephone survey were in management positions such as information systems manager, data processing manager, etc. Each respondent was asked to list the biggest myths in the computer industry, the most unethical practices in the computer industry, and the most important requirements for new graduates in the computer industry.
3. RESULTS Tables l-3 contain the responses to the three major questions asked, ordered by frequency of mention. Since each respondent was allowed more than one response, the total number of mentions need not add up to 100. It is clear from Table 1 that computer industry professionals believe that the most pervasive myth about computers is that they do everything by themselves. This can be a source of great frustration to DP managers who are asked to produce computer solutions to vaguely specified problems, immediately. Those not familiar with the human work that goes into computing frequently think that they can solve any problem with the words “put it through the computer.” Since most business school graduates are required to take at least one computer literacy course, it is likely that this myth will become less prevalent in the near future. The second most-mentioned myth, that computers are difftcult to use, reflects frustrations on the part of DP personnel with managers who resist automation of functions under their control. There are still many people who have a phobia against computers and do not realize that one can use a computer without being an expert in programming. This is made possible by the widespread use of menus, user-friendly screen layouts, fourthgeneration languages, and packages. It should be noted,
H. H. Friedman and L. W. Friedman Table 1. Computer Industry Myths by Frequency of Mention Number of
Biggest Myths in the Computer Industry Computers are “magicaJ”: They can do everything without human input Computers are difficult to use Computers will save you time Computers will save you paperwork Microcomputers bring about a tremendous increase in productivity There is no future in the computer industry People are still afraid of computers The industry needs more programmers A college degree is necessary to enter the field It’s better to work with paper IBM computers are the best The top mathematics students go into the field Programmers are being replaced by software packages Computers (not people) make mistakes One need not specialize within the computer industry Other myths, each mentioned only once
Mentions
41 27 21 16 12 11 10 9 6 6 5 4 3 2 2 4
however, that ten respondents feel that it is a myth that people are afraid of computers. The next three myths seem to be related to the firsti.e., computers are “magical” and will solve all problems: computers will save time and paperwork and increase productivity. This, of course, does not depend on the tool employed but on how it is put to use. Table 2 indicates that the piracy of copyrighted software is of great concern to industry professionals. The large number of mentions for this practice reflects the fact that this is a serious problem that has become very widespread. The problem of unauthorized access of confidential data represents unauthorized access from outside the organization as well as from within. With respect to this problem and the next, computer fraud, laws are being developed and strengthened in order to make clear that these practices are illegal and prosecutable, as well as unethical. Doing personal work while on
Table 2. Unethical Practices in the Computer Industry by Frequency of Mention
Most Unethical Practices in the Computer Industry Piracy of copyrighted software Unauthorized access of confidential data Using the computer to steal money and/or commit fraud Doing personal work and freelance projects while on company time Promising the customer more than the technology can deliver Other unethical practices, each mentioned only once
Number of Mentions 54 22 11 8 2 4
Myths, Unethical Practices, Personnel Requirements Table
3. Background Requirements for Computer Personnel by Frequency of Mention
Most Important New Graduates
Requirements for Entering the Computer
Industry
Practical experience Courses strong in analytical, statistical, mathematical, logical skills A degree in computer science helps, but is not that important Strength in oral and written communication skills No one particular requirement; it depends on the individual Good business background Familiarity with a few different programming languages A computer science degree is a disadvantage In addition to breadth, more depth in a single area Knowledge of computer architecture, hardware systems, operating systems, and data structures Degree from a reputable college Other requirements, each mentioned only once
Number of Mentions 62 47 44 36 25 25 24 13 I1 8 3 5
company time is a problem in any field but there is greater opportunity in the computer field and less likelihood that one will be caught. Table 3 indicates, unfortunately, that obtaining practical experience is still the major obstacle facing new
153 graduates. Obviously, this points to the importance of including more internship possibilities in computer science/systems programs. Universities should stress both communication skills and analytical skills, in addition to providing a good business background. Also of importance is technical knowledge such as several programming languages, hardware systems, operating systems, and data structures. A new graduate’s degree need not be in computer science, although a greater number of respondents feel that it would be more beneficial than not.
CONCLUSION
It is hoped that by pointing out the industry perceptions regarding prevalent myths, unethical practices, and desired background requirements for computer personnel, that this will influence curriculum development in undergraduate and graduate computer science and information systems programs.
ACKNOWLEDGMENT The authors wish to thank Mark Slotnick for his valuable assistance in conducting the telephone interviews for this study.
It is the intention of the Journal of Systems and Software to publish, from time to time, articles cut from a different mold. This is one in that series. The object of the “Controversy Comer” articles is not so much to present information as to stimulate thought. Topics chosen for this coverage are not traditional formal discussions of research work, but
rather are informal presentations of key issues in the systems and software world. This series will succeed only to the extent that it stimulates not just thought, but action. If you have a strong reaction to the article that follows, either positive or negative, write to Robert L. Glass, Editor, Journal of Systems and Software, Computing Trends, P.O. Box 213, State College, PA 16804. We will publish the best of the responses as “Controversy Revisited.”
Myths, Unethical Practices, Personnel Requirements: What Do Computer Industry Professionals Really Believe? Hershey H. Friedman Department of Economics, Brooklyn College of the City University of New York
Linda Weiser Friedman Department of Statisticsand Computer Information Systems, Baruch College of the City University of New York
A systematic random sample of 100 Fortune 500 companies was surveyed by telephone. The individuals contacted were in charge of the computer center and were asked to list the biggest myths in the computer industry, the major unethical practices in the computer industry, and the most important requirements for new graduates entering the industry. Respondents felt that the major myth revofved around the belief that computers are “magical” and can do everything without human input. The major unethical practice dealt with piracy of copyrighted software, and the major background requirement for new graduates was practical experience. The paper discusses these and other responses.
Address correspondence to Prof. Linda Weiser Friedman, Dept. of Statistics and Computer Information Systems, Baruch College, 1367 57th St., Brooklyn, NY 11219.
1. INTRODUCTION
Educators in the computer-related disciplines, unlike their colleagues in many other quantitative/analytical disciplines, must constantly be attuned to the everchanging needs of the industry served. Perhaps more than in any other field, courses in the computer disciplines stand ready to incorporate new ideas, focus on practical solutions to real and pressing problems, and regularly undergo a complete overhaul. There are many issues of continuing interest and controversy in the computer industry. Some that are of particular interest to students in business programs are the prevalent myths and unethical practices in the industry and recommended background requirements for new graduates in the field. In these areas, it is the authors’ belief that a systematic evaluation of the perceptions of professionals in the field is a necessity. 151
The loumal of systems aod software 10. 151-153 (1989) @ 1989 Elsevier Science Publishiig Co., Inc.
0161212/89/$3.50
152
The current study addresses these issues as represented by the following questions: 1) What are the major common myths that abound in the computer industry as perceived by professionals in the industry? Which of these so-called myths are most frequently mentioned? 2) What are the most commonly perceived unethical practices? Which of these unethical practices are most frequently mentioned by computer professionals? 3) What are the most important requirements for new graduates in the computer field?
2. METHOD A systematic random sample of Fortune 500 companies in the manufacturing and service fields was taken. The sample was limited to firms in the greater metropolitan New York area. The rate of response was 70%) and the resulting number of respondents was 100. The individuals contacted in the telephone survey were in management positions such as information systems manager, data processing manager, etc. Each respondent was asked to list the biggest myths in the computer industry, the most unethical practices in the computer industry, and the most important requirements for new graduates in the computer industry.
3. RESULTS Tables l-3 contain the responses to the three major questions asked, ordered by frequency of mention. Since each respondent was allowed more than one response, the total number of mentions need not add up to 100. It is clear from Table 1 that computer industry professionals believe that the most pervasive myth about computers is that they do everything by themselves. This can be a source of great frustration to DP managers who are asked to produce computer solutions to vaguely specified problems, immediately. Those not familiar with the human work that goes into computing frequently think that they can solve any problem with the words “put it through the computer.” Since most business school graduates are required to take at least one computer literacy course, it is likely that this myth will become less prevalent in the near future. The second most-mentioned myth, that computers are difftcult to use, reflects frustrations on the part of DP personnel with managers who resist automation of functions under their control. There are still many people who have a phobia against computers and do not realize that one can use a computer without being an expert in programming. This is made possible by the widespread use of menus, user-friendly screen layouts, fourthgeneration languages, and packages. It should be noted,
H. H. Friedman and L. W. Friedman Table 1. Computer Industry Myths by Frequency of Mention Number of
Biggest Myths in the Computer Industry Computers are “magicaJ”: They can do everything without human input Computers are difficult to use Computers will save you time Computers will save you paperwork Microcomputers bring about a tremendous increase in productivity There is no future in the computer industry People are still afraid of computers The industry needs more programmers A college degree is necessary to enter the field It’s better to work with paper IBM computers are the best The top mathematics students go into the field Programmers are being replaced by software packages Computers (not people) make mistakes One need not specialize within the computer industry Other myths, each mentioned only once
Mentions
41 27 21 16 12 11 10 9 6 6 5 4 3 2 2 4
however, that ten respondents feel that it is a myth that people are afraid of computers. The next three myths seem to be related to the firsti.e., computers are “magical” and will solve all problems: computers will save time and paperwork and increase productivity. This, of course, does not depend on the tool employed but on how it is put to use. Table 2 indicates that the piracy of copyrighted software is of great concern to industry professionals. The large number of mentions for this practice reflects the fact that this is a serious problem that has become very widespread. The problem of unauthorized access of confidential data represents unauthorized access from outside the organization as well as from within. With respect to this problem and the next, computer fraud, laws are being developed and strengthened in order to make clear that these practices are illegal and prosecutable, as well as unethical. Doing personal work while on
Table 2. Unethical Practices in the Computer Industry by Frequency of Mention
Most Unethical Practices in the Computer Industry Piracy of copyrighted software Unauthorized access of confidential data Using the computer to steal money and/or commit fraud Doing personal work and freelance projects while on company time Promising the customer more than the technology can deliver Other unethical practices, each mentioned only once
Number of Mentions 54 22 11 8 2 4
Myths, Unethical Practices, Personnel Requirements Table
3. Background Requirements for Computer Personnel by Frequency of Mention
Most Important New Graduates
Requirements for Entering the Computer
Industry
Practical experience Courses strong in analytical, statistical, mathematical, logical skills A degree in computer science helps, but is not that important Strength in oral and written communication skills No one particular requirement; it depends on the individual Good business background Familiarity with a few different programming languages A computer science degree is a disadvantage In addition to breadth, more depth in a single area Knowledge of computer architecture, hardware systems, operating systems, and data structures Degree from a reputable college Other requirements, each mentioned only once
Number of Mentions 62 47 44 36 25 25 24 13 I1 8 3 5
company time is a problem in any field but there is greater opportunity in the computer field and less likelihood that one will be caught. Table 3 indicates, unfortunately, that obtaining practical experience is still the major obstacle facing new
153 graduates. Obviously, this points to the importance of including more internship possibilities in computer science/systems programs. Universities should stress both communication skills and analytical skills, in addition to providing a good business background. Also of importance is technical knowledge such as several programming languages, hardware systems, operating systems, and data structures. A new graduate’s degree need not be in computer science, although a greater number of respondents feel that it would be more beneficial than not.
CONCLUSION
It is hoped that by pointing out the industry perceptions regarding prevalent myths, unethical practices, and desired background requirements for computer personnel, that this will influence curriculum development in undergraduate and graduate computer science and information systems programs.
ACKNOWLEDGMENT The authors wish to thank Mark Slotnick for his valuable assistance in conducting the telephone interviews for this study.