Data architects and business analysts should be requesting healthy raises from their bosses in 2012, judging by the latest salary guide from specialist finance & accounting, management and IT recruitment company Robert Half.

The average data architect salary for 2012 is between $110,000 and $120,000, representing a 7.5% year-on-year increase, the report says. Salaries of business analysts and senior business analysts have gone up 7.3%, while those of data warehouse consultants and business intelligence specialists have both gone up 7.1%.

Overall, IT salaries have gone up by 3.8%. Surprisingly, the increases haven’t translated to management positions, with roles like program manager and IT manager experiencing increases of less than 2%, and the roles of CIO, project co-ordinator and test manager experiencing no increase at all.

Megan Alexander, general manager for Robert Half, says the report shows the particular skills which are in demand in the IT industry.

"The intent to invest in and upgrade technology will drive demand for staff,” Alexander says.

"Those looking to stay marketable must ensure they develop their skill sets in line with future growth and up skill in the areas that are most in demand.”

IT employees also need to realise that technical skills alone won’t cut it, Alexander adds.

"They must also be strong communicators who are able to share information effectively with their peers. Those candidates with a combination of technical experience and ‘soft skills’ are the most highly sought after in the current market.”

Go here to download the report.