Omnificence or Differentiation? An Empirical Study of Knowledge Structure and Career Development of IT Workers

Abstract

This study explores the crucial yet underexamined labor supply side of the information technology (IT) job market, focusing on how IT professionals can strategically manage their knowledge diversity structures for career advancement. By introducing and operationalizing two novel metrics—knowledge omnificence and knowledge differentiation—the research examines their impact on IT workers’ salaries and job security. Through an extensive analysis of IT career data spanning from 2000 to 2016, the study reveals that moderate levels of knowledge omnificence and differentiation lead to the most favorable economic outcomes for IT professionals. Specifically, knowledge omnificence is associated with higher salary potential and career mobility, whereas knowledge differentiation is linked to enhanced job security. These findings provide actionable insights for IT workers aiming to optimize their career trajectories. Additionally, the study highlights the role of these knowledge structures in reducing gender disparities in the IT labor market, with women particularly benefiting from increased knowledge omnificence and differentiation. The research underscores the importance of strategic knowledge management for IT workers and offers valuable guidance for firms and policymakers to support a dynamic and equitable IT workforce.