Mastering Communication and Collaboration

A comprehensive guide to teamwork and leadership for IT professionals

By (author) Angus McIlwraith

Publication date: 14 Nov 2023

 As organisations shift towards a digital-first approach, the need for individuals with strong business acumen, interpersonal skills, and leadership capabilities has never been greater. This book aims to equip IT professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to collaborate and communicate effectively in today's fast-paced digital landscape.

Mastering Communication and Collaboration aims to find common ground between technical, and non-technical individuals to improve communication in all areas of the business.

Packed with actionable strategies and easy-to-read tools, tips and techniques, this book will help you improve your skills and become a more effective communicator and collaborator. Whether you're an aspiring leader or an experienced professional, this book is a must-have in your library.

  • Offers practical tools and techniques for better teamwork and communication.
  • Shares ideas from various sources to help you handle and understand complex scenarios.
  • Provides practical strategies and easy-to-follow tips.
  • A clear and accessible read, for everyone from business analysts and enterprise architects, to project managers and technical specialists.
View in the BCS Library
Angus McIlwraith has almost over 30 years experience in information risk & security. His experience includes C-level information security management, security training and education, web and digital media creation, risk management and journalism. He is a published author and has been a regular contributor to professional publications relating to security.

Print ISBN-13: 9781780176048

Ebook ISBN-13: 9781780176062

122 pages

Imprint: BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT

Part 1: Introduction 1: Background 2: What is an IT Business Partner? Part 2: Communication 3: The purpose and intention of communication 4: Know your audience 5: Communication – methods and tools 6: Presenting data and information 7: Interpreting data 8: Feedback – why and how 9: Communication clarity 10: Obtaining feedback – methods 11: Interpreting and responding to feedback Part 3: Collaboration 12: Why collaborate? 13: Collaboration – methods and tools 14: Collaboration – know yourself 15: Analysing your collaboration skills 16: Emotional intelligence and collaboration 17: Personal branding 18: Positive attitude 19: Collaboration skills 20: Active listening 21: Storytelling 22: Networking 23: Adapting style to meet others needs Part 4: Summary 24: Conclusion
This beautifully written book will be invaluable to any technology specialist wishing to develop the soft skills that are so important to make a difference in the modern workplace. Easy to read with warmth and wisdom, and illustrated with practical examples, I highly recommend it.

Simon Marvell, Founder and Director, Acuity Risk Management Limited

IT permeates every facet of modern life. Yet often, even with the best intentions, the rationale for technical decisions is not always explained in a way that is of a value to users. This book is a practical ‘how to’ guide for every technologist where they can learn to understand their audience and apply certain methodologies to constructively develop these key skills. It brings together a range of real world examples, research and tools for effective communication. Highly recommended.


Amanda Annandale, Business Architect, KPMG LLP

Mastering Communication and Collaboration is a refreshingly bold and captivating read. I found the exploration of storytelling's influence on teamwork and simplifying intricate workplace matters particularly intriguing. This book truly spotlights the undervalued skill of using narratives to forge connections, making it a standout aspect of its content.

Ian Murphy, Founder, CyberOff

An enjoyable read, which articulates the points of communication and collaboration really well with good everyday working examples. I would recommend this book for all levels of experience and this topic is very key in this new age of hybrid working.

Ranjit Attalia, Senior Business Analysis, Financial Conduct Authority

Mastering Communication and Collaboration is a thought-provoking publication that applies insight to those wishing to review and improve their communication skills to collaborate effectively. Whilst the content is relevant to all modes of working, the ideas are particularly timely given the rise in home working and the need to use tools to communicate remotely.

John Burns LL.M CEng MBCS, Information Security Risk Analyst

This book is the ultimate guide for IT professionals seeking to excel in teamwork and leadership. With insightful chapters on communication, data presentation, emotional intelligence, and more, this book is a game-changer for those aiming to thrive in the tech world. Its comprehensive approach equips readers with the essential skills needed to navigate the complex and dynamic IT landscape with finesse.

Rishikesh Yardi, Product Leader, Instacart

It’s great to see another practical resource covering the soft skills needed to be successful in Information Technology. This isn’t a textbook, it’s peppered with anecdotes and advice borne from real world experience. The book covers a range of practical tools, tips & techniques across a number of key areas such as; knowing your audience, story telling & how to collaborate allowing you to build trust with the teams around you & become an effective part of the wider team.

Alex Woodward CITP, VP UK Cyber, CGI