Barriers and enablers experienced by women in senior information technology positions in South Africa.

Abstract

The under-representation of women in senior and leadership positions in the IT industry has long been an issue of concern for both organisations and governments. This has led to this topic gaining global attention, which has led to studies undertaken to understand the causes of this under-representation. In South Africa we have seen efforts such as employment equality acts by government and diversity programmes by organisations that aim to address this under-representation. This study aims to understand the barriers that women encounter in their career journeys and the enablers that helped them overcome the barriers as they persisted and advanced in IT. This study followed a qualitative research approach using open-ended online interviews for data production using a sample of fifteen female senior IT managers. This sample consisted of Chief Information Officers (CIOs), Heads of Department, and different IT managers in their areas of specialities within IT. The results of this study showed that factors such as computer access at a young age played an important role in creating a positive attitude towards IT or computer related careers. Factors such as availability of bursaries for IT qualifications and knowledge of family members about the IT careers were most likely to increase the chances of a young woman to choose an IT career. The results also showed that young women who liked Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) subjects such as mathematics were also more likely to study IT or computer related qualifications. The IT industry career stream and the support employees received from family and organisations also played a big role in determining the persistence of women in their IT career. Furthermore, mentorship and sharing of opportunities within professional networks also contributed positively to the advancement of women in this industry. The flexibility and ability to work from home were among the highlighted benefits that encouraged women to persist. Results also showed that more women were concentrated in middle management and that the career path to the Csuite level is not clear. The understanding of barriers and enablers presented in this study will guide and inform the choices women and the societies make about this industry and better position government and organisations with understanding needed in creating an IT industry that nurtures women to success.