In 2009 I was awarded an MS degree in Technology Management from Columbia University. The program was really great, though to be honest, I did not take full advantage of all of it. I got out what I put in, which was about 93% out of 100. I am an adult and I made certain choices that I have no problem living with. No complaints, no regrets.
The two year program exposed me to many facets of managing technology (mostly information technology). It is hard to say which course stood out the most, all the subjects find some way to work themselves into my work life.*
* I don't want this to sound like some type of advertisement for the program. It is not, though I will encourage other technologists to look at the Columbia program or others quite like it.
I am not a lawyer, I have had one course that covered aspects of law as it relates to technology managers. That course has given me enough insight to know that there are times when I need to consult a lawyer to help with contracts and other agreements. Because of the course, I think I have enough information so that I can actually communicate with a contract lawyer and understand the gist of the issues. That is the sum total of my expertise and that little bit is very valuable to me.
For those interested in being a technology manager (CIO, CTO, Senior Manager, etc), get familiar with this stuff. It will enter your life whenever you start the process of working with a vendor, particularly as it pertains to custom software development. Make sure you know what you are getting into and really be reasonable about it. It is not just the contract, but also the scope of work that you need to be concerned about.
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