Women in ICT: Barriers to career advancement and strategies for improvement

Abstract

Women are generally under-represented in the technology, or ICT, industry. Their numbers dwindle as they advance to senior management, with only 19% of senior posts assumed by women [1]. This paper looked at barriers to career advancement of women in ICT, strategies to bridge them and the strategies seen as the most effective by study participants. Data was collected through online questionnaire from 50 women occupying ICT posts in Gauteng Province, South Africa. We analysed the data using a combination of descriptive statistics and coding. The most prevalent career advancement barriers identified were the male-dominated nature of the sector, lack of empowerment and work-life imbalance. Participants believe that the use of quota systems for gender diversity, transparent performance reviews and opportunities for women, will be effective to bridge these barriers. Our findings mirror typical trends in the male-dominated ICT industries across the globe.