Breadth of Knowledge
CITPNZ applicants must be able to demonstrate knowledge across the broad scope of IT beyond that required for an individual's area of specialism, that allows them to communicate and work with specialists across the IT profession.
According to the international standard, to be awarded CITPNZ candidates must be able to:
Demonstrate knowledge across the broad scope of IT beyond that required for an individual's area of specialism. Applicants should be able to evidence deep knowledge in their area of specialism with breadth of knowledge sufficient to demonstrate a broad awareness that allows them to communicate and work with specialists across the IT profession.
There are two ways a candidate can choose to demonstrate this Breadth of knowledge, including:
- peer review, as part of the videoconference interview, or
- holding a degree accredited by ITP in New Zealand or a Seoul Accord signatory overseas
Most complete this as part of their teleconference interview.
Why include a Breadth of Knowledge requirement?
Regardless of practice area or IT role, it's essential that all IT professionals have a base-level understanding of the concepts underpinning all areas of IT. For example, the best developers understand the concepts of IT service management, testing, business analysis and the technology platform - even if these things aren't directly relevant to their work.
This is the same for all professions. Accountants need a broad understanding of Accounting, even if they're only specialising in one area. In fact possessing a broad domain knowledge is one of the key things that differentiates a professional.
Types of questions you may be asked
Often the evidence for meeting the breadth of knowledge requirement is met through discussing your work and background in general rather than a specific question. However the following are the types of questions you might be asked, in relation to Breadth of Knowledge, during your CITPNZ interview:
1. Can you outline how you have learnt about the following (giving examples):
- methods and issues involved in deploying systems to meet business goals
- methods, techniques and tools for information modelling, management and security
- systems architecture and related technologies for developing information systems
- mathematical and/or statistical principles related to the study of IT
2. Can you outline how your experience or theoretical learning has equipped you to appreciate the following (giving examples):
- the commercial and economic context of the development, use and maintenance of information systems
- the management techniques which may be used to achieve objectives within a computing context
- information security issues in relation to the design, development and use of information systems
3. As a Professional member of ITPNZ you are bound to abide by a Code of Ethics. In what way do you consider this to be relevant to you as an IT professional (and especially as a Chartered professional with leadership and management responsibilities)?
Ready to apply for CITPNZ?
Ready to apply? The main application is submitted online and you can complete this over time. The online process will guide you through the application process and you can submit your application when you're ready.
