IT professionals often face a multitude of frustrations, particularly when dealing with end-user issues and workplace situations. In a recent survey conducted by SolarWinds, over 400 IT pros provided insights into their biggest challenges just in time for IT Pro Day.
The most significant annoyance for IT personnel appears to be user errors, with approximately 32.5% of respondents citing this as their top issue. This was followed by 19.9% who expressed frustration with end users failing to log help desk tickets. Other notable problems included ignored updates (12.1%) and weak passwords (10.5%).
Survey respondents were also asked about bothersome buzzwords in the industry. A striking 30.7% admitted that the term "artificial intelligence" was the most aggravating, while "digital transformation" (15.3%), "seamless integration" (13.0%), and "synergy" (10.5%) also made the list. Other terms generating eye-rolls included “zero trust” and the phrase “paradigm shift.”
When it came to the phrases that elicit the strongest negative reactions, respondents noted statements such as “I didn’t touch anything” (19.0%) and “The Wi-Fi’s broken” (18.3%) as particularly distressing. Surveyed IT professionals wished that their coworkers understood the scope of their responsibilities better. Nearly a third (30.7%) felt that people only notice them when something goes wrong, and 28.4% wanted to convey that they juggle requests from multiple departments.
As for dream gifts on IT Pro Day, IT pros expressed wishes for an unlimited budget, heartfelt thanks, and an absence of urgent alerts. There were also humorous requests such as an ergonomic chair that doesn’t creak and a day devoid of meetings.
This feedback not only highlights the technical challenges faced by IT professionals but also emphasizes their desire for recognition and appreciation within their organizations.
