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IT Departments Having Difficulty Finding Employees with Proficient Privacy and Security Skills

By Stephanie Robinson

Network World recently published the results of a Computer Technology Industry Association (?CITA?) survey indicating that many businesses are in need of IT professionals with a variety of security and data privacy skills. Although approximately 75 percent of businesses identified security, firewall, and privacy skills as essential to the success of their organization, only about half of the businesses surveyed said they believed their employees possessed the necessary privacy and skills. Many organizations are aware of the skills gaps in their IT departments and are planning to offer training or encourage employees to complete certification courses. However, the skills gaps could pose a problem for organizations that do not take corrective action soon enough. For instance, if a HIPAA-covered entity is aware that its security personnel are not adequately trained, and takes no steps to correct the deficiency, the organization is likely out of compliance with HIPAA requirements. It is important for organizations to review their privacy and security policies, identify any risks, prioritize the corrective action, and implement solutions. Organizations that are struggling to find qualified candidates may consider using outside consulting services to assist with the privacy and security initiatives.

Full post as published by Business and Technology Law on March 06, 2008 (boomark / email).