Also called:
Information Systems Director (IS Director), Information Systems Manager (IS Manager), Information Technology Director (IT Director), Information Technology Manager (IT Manager)
More than ever before, decision makers at all levels rely on having the information they need right at their fingertips. Computer and information systems managers, also called Information Technology – or IT – managers, do the work of making information accessible. IT managers keep computer systems working properly and efficiently. They determine a company's computer needs, create project budgets, and work with senior management to put the necessary resources in place. These managers develop computer networks and set up Internet and Intranet sites, ever mindful of future needs, and of securing the organization’s data. IT managers oversee training programs and handle technical problems, often under high stress and tight timelines to avoid system failure. Though a college degree is expected, often in an IT major, this position requires a proven track record in a related occupation such as systems analyst or computer programmer. Some IT managers hold advanced IT degrees and certifications, or specialize in areas such as security or web hosting. Constant re-training is typical. If you love the challenges of keeping pace with computer technology, power up a career in IT management.
What they do:
Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as electronic data processing, information systems, systems analysis, and computer programming.
On the job, you would:
Direct daily operations of department, analyzing workflow, establishing priorities, developing standards and setting deadlines.
Meet with department heads, managers, supervisors, vendors, and others, to solicit cooperation and resolve problems.
Review project plans to plan and coordinate project activity.
Engineering and Technology
computers and electronics
product and service development
Business
customer service
management
Arts and Humanities
English language
Math and Science
arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, or statistics
Basic Skills
thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem
listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
Problem Solving
noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
People and Technology Systems
thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one
figuring out how a system should work and how changes in the future will affect it
Verbal
communicate by speaking
listen and understand what people say
Ideas and Logic
make general rules or come up with answers from lots of detailed information
notice when problems happen
Math
add, subtract, multiply, or divide
choose the right type of math to solve a problem
People interested in this work like activities that include leading, making decisions, and business.
They do well at jobs that need:
Attention to Detail
Integrity
Dependability
Initiative
Cooperation
Analytical Thinking
You might use software like this on the job:
Web platform development software
Apache Tomcat
Spring Framework
Data base user interface and query software
Amazon Web Services AWS software
Blackboard software
Enterprise resource planning ERP software
Microsoft Dynamics
SAP software
bachelor's degree or some college usually needed
Get started on your career:
New job opportunities are very likely in the future.
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