Smooth Sailing: how to ensure an easy crossing to a Linux Operating System
Skills shortages needn’t sink your migration to a Linux operating system
There is a general Linux operating system skills shortage that makes it hard for organisations to obtain the skills, knowledge and experience they require to migrate to a Linux operating system. A high bar has been set for those wishing to specialise in Linux, and this makes it expensive for organisations to recruit and retain in-house Linux specialists. They are often perceived as being more costly, or are actually more costly, to hire than professionals who have other IT skills and experience. The problem is made worse because we have found that Linux specialists are often unwilling to work in mixed operating system environments. So rather than enjoying smooth sailing, many businesses feel they’ve hit an iceberg when they try to implement a Linux operating system.
What skills do you need?
The kinds of skills that are needed to maintain Linux operating systems and software include the following:
- Competencies in creating software patches to eliminate bugs
- Software upgrade and lifecycle management knowledge and skills
- The ability to plan and manage the roll-out of applications to meet the needs of the business at any given moment in time
- Communication and people skills: IT management is no longer about hiring geeks to sit in the backroom. CTOs and CIOs now play a more strategic role within organisations. They need to be able to negotiate with financial directors and other senior executives to persuade them that Linux is the ticket.
