Developing women in a digital world

Discusses the findings of a recent study into the development of women managers, in the field of information technology (IT). Addresses the key question as to why few women are entering IT. Provides an insight into the perception of women working in IT, and their role in this “fast‐growing” technological area. Identifies four obstacles – gender stereotypes and attitudes, family responsibility, working time constraints, and lack of confidence – that have had a restrictive impact on the careers of female managers employed in this field. Albeit each of these obstacles has an overlap of common characteristics, it was decided that it would be better to explore each in individual context for the purpose of clarity. Also evaluates evidence taken from “personal interviews” carried out with 46 female delegates enrolled on a specialised IT training course, and 17 female managers from various companies. Uses structured questionnaire to elicit and record this data.