An integrated human resources approach to moving information technology professionals toward best in class

Abstract

Software is integral to every part of AT&T's business. More than 30,000 company employees are involved in some aspect of software development. Until recently, however, the AT&T information technology (IT) population was not recognized and supported as a professional community. In 1994, this situation began to change when a group called the People Team was established as part of a larger initiative to address AT&T's software competitiveness. The team comprised technical managers and human resources (HR) professionals appointed by the AT&T business units and divisions. Its objective was to develop different approaches to migrating the IT community to best-in-class HR practices. To guide its work, the People Team benchmarked HR practices for software professionals in selected high-technology companies. Key outputs from the team included a curriculum guide, recruiting and staffing strategies, and reward and recognition practices. Thus, AT&T software professionals are now better able to keep their technical knowledge and skills up to date and remain prepared for technology changes as they occur. In addition, AT&T's future leadership in IT and software development is ensured.