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In
the modern workplace, it is imperative that Information Technology (IT)
works both effectively and reliably. Computer and information systems
managers play a vital role in the implementation and administration of
technology within their organizations. They plan, coordinate, and direct
research on the computer-related activities of firms. In consultation
with other managers, they help determine the goals of an organization
and then implement technology to meet those goals. They oversee all
technical aspect of an organization, such as software development,
network security, and Internet operations.
Computer
and information systems managers direct the work of other IT
professionals, such as computer software engineers and computer
programmers, computer systems analysts, and computer support specialists. They plan and coordinate activities such as installing and
upgrading hardware and software, programming and systems design, the
implementation of computer networks, and the development of Internet and
intranet sites. They are increasingly involved with the upkeep,
maintenance, and security of networks. They analyze the computer and
information needs of their organizations from an operational and
strategic perspective and determine immediate and long-range personnel
and equipment requirements. They assign and review the work of their
subordinates and stay abreast of the latest technology to ensure that
the organization remains competitive.
Computer
and information systems managers can have additional duties, depending
on their role within an organization. Chief technology officers (CTOs) evaluate the newest and most innovative technologies and
determine how these can help their organizations. They develop technical
standards, deploy technology, and supervise workers who deal with the
daily information technology issues of the firm. When a useful new tool
has been identified, the CTO determines one or more possible
implementation strategies, including cost-benefit and return on
investment analyses, and presents those strategies to top management,
such as the chief information officer (CIO).
Management information
systems (MIS) directors or information technology (IT) directors manage
computing resources for their organizations. They often work under the
chief information officer and plan and direct the work of subordinate
information technology employees. These managers ensure the
availability, continuity, and security of data and information
technology services in their organizations. In this capacity, they
oversee a variety of technical departments, develop and monitor
performance standards, and implement new projects.
IT project managers
develop requirements, budgets, and schedules for their firm’s
information technology projects. They coordinate such projects from
development through implementation, working with their organization’s IT
workers, as well as clients, vendors, and consultants. These managers
are increasingly involved in projects that upgrade the information
security of an organization.
Information Systems Resources |
Online |
Overview:
Overview of Information Systems |
Preparation:
Admission Requirements, Graduate Degrees,
Accredited Programs |
Day in the Life:
Teams and Coworkers,
Tasks, the Workplace |
Earnings:
Employer Options, Salary Ranges, Types of Employers |
Employment:
Statistics, Industries, Employers |
Career Path Forecast:
Predictions |
Professional Organizations:
Resources, Networking, Support |
Internet Resources:
Association
for Computing Machinery
Association
for Women in Computing
Institute of Electrical and Electronics
Engineers Computer Society |
Note: Some resources in this section are provided by the US Department
of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics.
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