Is Reskilling in AI Required for IT Managers?

The advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI) continue to shape various industries, including technology management. The question arises: do IT managers need to reskill in AI to remain relevant?

Reskilling in AI:
Benefits for Project Management

Regardless of the field, reskilling in AI can be beneficial for project managers. AI can act as a valuable assistant, enhancing various aspects of project management.

Why Should Project Managers Learn to Code?

Learning to code is not mandatory for project managers (PMs). However, an understanding of how AI can support their work can be incredibly helpful. PMs do not need to become proficient programmers but should grasp the basics of AI operations and functionalities.

Will AI Take Over Project Management Jobs?

While AI can automate many tasks, it is unlikely to completely replace project managers. Instead, AI will enable PMs to focus on strategic tasks and decision-making. AI can assist in areas such as risk verification, workflow automation, and project schedule analysis.

Types of Jobs AI Can Assist in Project Management

AI can assist PMs in a variety of ways:

Automatically verifying risk registers Triggering or checking workflows to facilitate stakeholder approval Analyzing project schedules against organizational process assets

Integrating AI with DevOps and ITIL frameworks can further enhance project management processes. The cloud, in particular, offers a multitude of opportunities for leveraging AI.

Reskilling is Optional but Advisable for IT Managers

While reskilling in AI is not a mandatory requirement for IT managers, staying informed and engaged with emerging technologies can significantly benefit them:

Afford the Business Stakeholders Valuable Insights

IT managers have the opportunity to proactively engage with business stakeholders and suggest the use of AI/ML in various contexts. This proactive stance adds value and benefits the organization.

Articulate Use Cases of AI

As a manager, you may not need to demonstrate hands-on techniques, but you should be able to articulate the use cases of AI and other technologies relevant to your organization. This clarifies your role and enhances your credibility.

Stay Informed but Not Overwhelmed

While it's important to stay informed about emerging technologies, it's unrealistic to become an expert in all areas. Specialization in IT skills and business management is essential. AI requires deep education and immersion, and it's commendable to study it, but limited coursework does not equate to expertise.

Summary

Reskilling in AI or any other emerging technology is not a mandatory requirement for IT managers. However, remaining informed and engaged with these technologies can provide significant advantages. It’s crucial to maintain a balance between technological knowledge and practical experience to stay relevant and effective in today’s dynamic business landscape.