Factors Influencing Women’s IT Career Choice in South Africa

Abstract

AbstractThe number of women professionals participating in the IT industry in South Africa is less than 20%. A number of factors influence women’s IT career choices, such as previous programming exposure and the influence of parents, teachers and role models. Young women do not view the IT industry as a desirable career and those who are qualified and working in the IT industry, often leave the industry mid-career due to family commitments. This study followed a positivistic research philosophy and the approach was deductive. A quantitative study using a survey was conducted to test the conceptual model. The survey was conducted amongst women currently working in the IT industry in South Africa to establish the factors that have contributed to their participation in the IT industry and the factors that influence their longevity in the IT industry.The main findings of the study indicate that women who choose a career in IT have high levels of intrinsic motivation and obtain the relevant IT qualifications. Women remain in an IT career if they are self-confident, maintain a work-life balance and have flexible working hours. Scholars, parents and teachers should be made aware of IT qualifications and careers. The lack of women in IT top-level management positions has resulted in less female role models. Women in IT face occupational challenges that can lead to females leaving the IT industry. The study identified factors that influenced women working in the IT industry selecting a career in IT and remaining in the IT industry.KeywordsWomen in ITWomen IT career choiceWomen retention strategies