Computer Technology & Information Systems Careers

Business/Marketing Education is comprised of four different areas and each area is broken down into multiple job fields, which the picture below illustrates. This report spotlights the Information Systems field. While there are a wide range of careers in this field this report focuses on the required skills, knowledge, education, and training, as well as job outlook and salary of four representative careers, one from each of the four major Information Systems job fields: Network Administration, Business Information Support/Services, Interactive Media, and Telecommunication Technologies. The four careers are: Network Administrator/Computer Support Specialist, Operations Research Analyst, Graphics Designer, and Telecommunication Equipment Installer/Repairer.

Network

Figure 1: Business/Marketing Education

Administrator/Computer Support Specialist Today, most modern businesses days rely on networked computers for day to day operations. Instant messaging, e-mail, calendaring, shared documents, shared databases,

calendaring, browsing, and even basic workflow all require networked computers to function. These resources are managed by network administrators and computer support specialists.

Network administrators support an organization's network system. This support includes local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), Internet access, and intranets (web sites accessible only within an organization). Depending on the size of the business, they may also do the actual design and installation. This is typical in a small business environment. They maintain all network hardware and software and analyze problems such as broadcast storms and traffic congestion to ensure the reliability and availability of the network for the users. Many network administrators also plan and coordinate security measures for the network such as intrusion prevention and detection.

Computer support specialists provide technical assistance, support, and advice to customers and other users. This occupational group includes technical support specialists and helpdesk technicians. These troubleshooters interpret problems and provide technical support for hardware, software, and systems. They answer telephone calls, analyze problems by using automated diagnostic programs, and resolve recurring difficulties. Support specialists work either within a company that uses computer systems or directly for a computer hardware or software vendor. Increasingly, these specialists work for help-desk or support services firms, for which they provide computer support to clients on a contract basis. Technical support specialists respond to inquiries from their organizations computer users and may run automatic diagnostics programs to resolve problems. They also install,

modify, clean, and repair computer hardware and software. In addition, they may write training manuals and train computer users in how to use new computer hardware and software. These workers also oversee the daily performance of their companys computer systems and evaluate how useful software programs are.

Help-desk technicians respond to telephone calls and e-mail messages from customers looking for help with computer problems. In responding to these inquiries, help-desk technicians must listen carefully to the customer, ask questions to diagnose the nature of the problem, and then patiently walk the customer through the problem-solving steps. Help-desk technicians deal directly with customer issues and companies value them as a source of feedback on their products. They are consulted for information about what gives customers the most trouble, as well as other customer concerns. Most computer support specialists start out at the help desk. Network administrators are responsible for maintaining network efficiency. They ensure that the design of an organizations computer system allows all of the components, including computers, the network, and software, to work properly together. Furthermore, they monitor and adjust the performance of existing networks and continually survey the current computer site to determine future network needs. Administrators also troubleshoot problems reported by users and by automated network monitoring systems and make recommendations for future system upgrades. In some organizations, computer security specialists may plan, coordinate, and implement the organizations information security. These workers educate users about computer security, install security software, monitor networks for security breaches, respond to cyber

attacks, and, in some cases, gather data and evidence to be used in prosecuting cyber crime. The responsibilities of computer security specialists have increased in recent years as cyber attacks have become more common. This and other growing specialty occupations reflect an increasing emphasis on client-server applications, the expansion of Internet and intranet applications, and the demand for more end-user support.

A bachelors degree is generally required but certification and relevant experience may be sufficient for others. Strong problem solving skills, analytical, and good communication skills are a must for an Administrator because troubleshooting and helping others are vital parts of the job. The constant interaction with other computer personnel, customers, and employees requires computer support specialists and systems administrators to communicate effectively on paper, via e-mail, over the phone, or in person. Strong writing skills are useful in preparing manuals for employees and customers. Employment of computer support specialists and systems administrators is expected to increase much faster than the average. Job prospects should be best for those with a college degree and relevant experience. Computer support specialists and systems administrators normally work in well-lighted, comfortable offices or computer laboratories. They usually work about 40 hours a week, but if their employer requires computer support over extended hours, they may be on call for rotating evening or weekend work. Overtime may be necessary when unexpected technical problems arise. Like other workers who type on a keyboard for long periods, computer support specialists and systems administrators are susceptible to eyestrain, back discomfort, and hand and wrist problems such as carpal tunnel syndrome.

Computer support specialists and systems administrators constantly interact with customers and fellow employees as they answer questions and give advice. Those who work as consultants are away from their offices much of the time, sometimes spending months working in a clients office. As computer networks expand, more computer support specialists and systems administrators may be able to provide technical support from remote locations. This capability would reduce or eliminate travel to the customers workplace. Systems administrators also can administer and configure networks and servers remotely, although this practice is not as common as it is among computer support specialists.

Employment of network and computer systems administrators is expected to increase by 27 percent from 2006 to 2016, which will add 83,000 jobs, and computer support specialists is expected to add 71,000 new jobs, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. Computer networks have become an integral part of business, and demand for these workers will increase as firms continue to invest in new technologies. The wide use of electronic commerce and the increasing adoption of mobile technologies mean that more establishments will use the Internet to conduct business online. This growth translates into a need for systems administrators who can help organizations use technology to communicate with employees, clients, and consumers. Demand for computer security specialists will grow as businesses and government continue to invest heavily in cyber security, protecting vital computer networks and electronic infrastructures from attack. The information security field is expected to generate many new system administrator jobs over

the next decade as firms across all industries place a high priority on safeguarding their data and systems.

For system administrators starting salaries ranged from 50,000-75,750 and for support analysts salaries ranged from 46,500-65,250 and for help desk salaries ranged from 27,50037, 000.

Operations Research Analyst Operations research analysts are often involved in top-level strategizing, planning, and forecasting. They help to allocate resources, measure performance, schedule, design production facilities and systems, manage the supply chain, set prices, coordinate transportation and distribution, or analyze large databases. These are common tasks in any business. The duties of the operations research analyst vary according to the structure and management of the organization they are assisting. Some firms centralize operations research in one department; others use operations research in each division. Operations research analysts also may work closely with senior managers to identify and solve a variety of problems. Analysts often have one area of specialization, such as working in the transportation or the financial services industry. Modeling, Statistical analysis, and linear programming are some of the methods used to solve problems. Operations research analysts start a project by listening to managers describe a problem. Then, analysts ask questions and formally define the problem. For example, an operations research analyst for an auto manufacturer may be asked to determine the best inventory

level for each of the parts needed on a production line and to ascertain the optimal number of windshields to be kept in stock. Too many windshields would be wasteful and expensive, whereas too few could halt production. Analysts would study the problem, breaking it into its components. Then they would gather information from a variety of sources. To determine the optimal inventory, operations research analysts might talk with engineers about production levels, discuss purchasing arrangements with buyers, and examine storage-cost data provided by the accounting department. Usually the model chosen is modified and run repeatedly to obtain different solutions. A model for airline flight scheduling, for example, might stipulate such things as connecting cities, the amount of fuel required to fly the routes, projected levels of passenger demand, varying ticket and fuel prices, pilot scheduling, and maintenance costs. By assessing different possible schedules, the analyst is able to determine the best flight schedule consistent with particular assumptions. Based on the results of the analysis, the operations research analyst presents recommendations to managers. The analyst may need to modify and rerun the computer program to consider different assumptions before presenting the final recommendation. Once managers reach a decision, the analyst usually works with others in the organization to ensure the plans successful implementation.

A Bachelors degree is minimum requirement but a masters degree is preferred. Employees have to be proficient in programming, a good problem solver, have good data collection and management skills, and must be able to think logically, work well with other people, and be able to write and speak well including good communication skills.

Employment of operations research analysts expected to increase by 11% from 2006-2016, which will add 6,200 jobs, which is as fast as the average for all occupations. Starting salaries ranged from 48,000-85,000.

Graphic Designer Graphic Designers plan, analyze, and create visual solutions to communications problems. They find the most effective way to get messages across in print, electronic, and film media using a variety of methods such as color, type, illustration, photography, animation, and various print and layout techniques. Graphic designers develop the overall layout and production design of magazines, newspapers, journals, corporate reports, and other publications. They also produce promotional displays, packaging, and marketing brochures for products and services, design distinctive logos for products and businesses, and develop signs and signage systemscalled environmental graphicsfor business and government. An increasing number of graphic designers also develop material for Internet Web pages, interactive media, and multimedia projects. Graphic designers also may produce the credits that appear before and after television programs and movies.

A Bachelors degree is minimum requirement for most entry-level and advanced positions although some entry-level positions may only require an associated degree. Approximately 25% are self-employed. Creativity, good communication skills, good problem solving skills, being familiar with computer graphics/design software, and an eye for detail are a must.

Working conditions and places of employment vary. Graphic designers employed by large advertising, publishing, or design firms generally work regular hours in well-lighted and comfortable settings. Designers in smaller design consulting firms and those who freelance generally work on a contract, or job, basis. They frequently adjust their workday to suit their clients schedules and deadlines. Consultants and self-employed designers tend to work longer hours and in smaller, more congested, environments. Designers may work in their own offices or studios or in clients offices. Designers who are paid by the assignment are under pressure to please existing clients and to find new ones to maintain a steady income. All designers sometimes face frustration when their designs are rejected or when their work is not as creative as they wish. Graphic designers may work evenings or weekends to meet production schedules, especially in the printing and publishing industries where deadlines are shorter and more frequent.

Employment of graphic designers is expected to increase by 10 percent from 2006 to 2016, which will add 26,000 jobs. There is lots of competition for jobs in this field. Starting salaries range from 31,000-53,000.

Telecommunications Equipment Installer/Repairer Telephones, computers, and radios depend on a variety of equipment such as transmitters/receivers, antennas, switches, routers, relays, and amplifiers to transmit communications signals and connect to the Internet. From electronic and optical switches that route telephone calls and packets of data to their destinations to radio transmitters and receivers that relay signals from radios in airplanes, boats, and emergency vehicles,

complex equipment is needed to keep us communicating. The workers who set up and maintain this sophisticated equipment are called radio and telecommunications equipment installers and repairers.

Most employers prefer applicants with postsecondary training in electronics and familiarity with computers. The education needed for these jobs may vary from a certification to work on certain equipment to a 2 or 4 year degree in electronics or a related subject. A bachelors degree may be required for more complex work. An applicant should be mechanically inclined, have good problem solving and good communication skills and CANNOT be color blind because the wires are different colors and the applicant has to be able to see the different colors to know how to hook the wires together correctly.

In this area there are lots of keen competition and employment is expected to increase by 2% from 2006-2016, which is expected to add 5,000 jobs. This jobs is usually and hourly paid job with starting salaries from $20-$29 an hour.

References

Bureau of Labor Statistics- www.bls.gov

Personal Interview with Michael Osborne, former IT manager

World wide website- www.worldwidelearn.com