Computer and Information Systems Manager Careers
It is imperative that technology works both effectively and reliably in the modern work environment. A vital role in played by computer and information system managers in the implementation of technology within their companies. These managers have a wide range of duties from helping to prepare a business plan to supervising network security to overseeing Internet operations.
These managers facilitate the computer-related activities of firms by planning, coordinating and directing research. In consultation with top management, they help formulate both technical and business-related goals and they develop detailed plans so these goals can be accomplished. A strong understanding of both technology and business practices is required.
The work of systems analysts, computer programmers, support specialists, and other computer-related workers is directed by computer and information system managers. The installation and upgrading of hardware and software, programming and systems design, development of computer networks, and implementation of intranet and internet sites are planned and facilitated by these managers. Increasingly they are 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 they analyze the computer and information needs while formulating both the immediate and long-range personnel and equipment requirements. They ensure their company stays current with the latest technology, they assess and supervise their subordinates work and they have an overall goal to keep their companies competitive.
Computer and information systems manager’s duties vary a great deal. Chief technology officers (CTOs) are responsible to evaluate the newest and most innovative technologies and determine how these technologies might help their firms. The chief technology officer manages and plans technical standards, and focuses on the daily information technology issues of the firm and usually reports to the organizations chief information officer. Chief technology officers must constantly be on the lookout for technological developments that could benefit their firms given the rapid pace of technological change. The CTO must determine an implementation strategy and champion that strategy to management once a useful tool has been identified.
Management information systems (MIS) directors or information technology (IT) directors direct computing assets for their companies. These managers plan and direct the work of subordinate information technology employees while under the oversight of the chief information officer. It is their responsibility to ensure the availability, continuity, and security of data and information technology services in their firms. As such, they can oversee a variety of user services such as an organization’s help desk, where employees can call with technical questions or problems. Also, MIS directors may make software and/or hardware update recommendations based on their understanding of the company’s technology.
Project managers. Project requirements, budgets, and schedules for their firms’ information technology projects are developed by project managers. Working with internal and external clients, vendors, consultants, and computer specialists they coordinate such projects from initiation to implementation. Increasingly, these managers are involved in projects which will improve the information security of a company.
Work environment. These managers spend the majority of their time working in offices. A standard work week is at least 40 hours a week but on occasion, they may have to work some evenings and weekends to meet deadlines or resolve unanticipated problems. Due to short deadlines and tight budgets, these managers may experience substantial pressure in order to meet technical goals. With the expansion of networks it is necessary for managers to do more work remotely and to communicate with and direct offsite employees using modems, laptops, e-mail via the Internet.
Because of continued use of the computer these manager are susceptible to eyestrain, back discomfort, and hand and wrist problems that can result in carpal tunnel syndrome.
Training, Qualifications and Advancement
Generally these managers are very experienced and they have technical knowledge and skills as well as an understanding of business and management principles. Successful managers have a strong educational background and experience in a variety of technical fields.
Education and training. Although a bachelor’s degree is usually required for management positions, many employers often prefer a graduate degree, particularly an MBA with technology courses as a core component. In addition to standard business curriculum, this degree differs from a traditional MBA in that there is a heavy emphasis on information technology. Since these systems managers are making more important technology decisions as well as business decisions for their organizations, their traditional and technological preparation is very important.
Degrees in management information systems are offered by some universities which blend technical subjects with business, accounting, and communications courses. While a few computer and information systems managers may attain their positions with only an associate or trade school degree, they must have sufficient experience and have acquired additional needed skills from on-the-job training. To enhance their professional advancement, many managers with an associate degree later earn a bachelor’s or master’s degree while continuing to work.
Certification and other qualifications. A broad range of skills is needed by computer and information systems managers. Managers who have experience with the specific software or technology used by the company and have a background in either consulting or business management are preferred by employers. Growth in electronic commerce has made business insight more critical; consequently, many computer and information systems managers are required to make important business decisions. To be successful, managers need a keen understanding of people, management processes, and customers’ needs.
In order to guide the work of their subordinates, managers must have advanced technical knowledge; however, they must also be able to explain in non-technical terms their work to senior managers and potential customers. Many managers have gained this ability by working as a systems analyst, or as a computer support specialist, programmer, or other information technology professional.
Although certification is not necessarily required for most computer and information systems manager positions, there is a wide variety of certifications available that may be helpful in getting a job. These certifications are generally administered by software or hardware companies rather than independent organizations and are often product-specific.
Computer and information systems managers are expected to understand business practices since computer systems are becoming more closely integrated with day-to-day operations. Managers must have strong interpersonal, communication and leadership skills so they can interact effectively not only with co-workers but also with other people both within and outside their organization. Team building skills are needed in order to work effectively on group projects and other collaborative efforts. Managers must have an understanding of how a business functions, how it earns revenue, and how technology supports the core competencies of the business. Consequently, many firms now prefer to hire managers who have some additional work experience outside of their technical fields.
Advancement. Advancement is normally to progressively higher leadership positions within the information technology department. A chief technology officer may be promoted from a project manager position up to the chief technology officer position and then to chief information officer. Because of their understanding of technical issues, which can be helpful in other fields, some individuals may become managers in non-technical areas such as marketing, human resources, or sales.
Employment Opportunities
In 2006, computer and information systems managers held about 264,000 jobs. Service-providing industries, mainly in computer systems design and related services provided about 1 in 4 jobs for these managers. This is a broad industry which includes services related to the commercial use of computers on a contract basis, including custom computer programming services; computer systems integration design services; computer facilities management services, computer systems or data-processing facilities support services; and other special computer-related services like disaster recovery services and software installation. Large employers which utilize these services include insurance and financial firms, government agencies, and manufacturers.
Job Outlook
Growth in this occupation is projected to be faster than average due to the increasing use of technology in the workplace. Prospects should be excellent for qualified job candidates due to employment growth and as a result of the high demand for technical workers.
Employment change. Job growth of computer and information systems managers is estimated to grow 16 percent over the 2006-16 decade, which is faster than the average for all occupations. Demand for workers will be driven by new applications of technology in the workplace thereby fueling the need for more managers.
The job outlook for computer and information systems managers remains strong despite the downturn in the technology sector during the early part of the decade. Firms will continue to install sophisticated computer networks and set up more complex intranets and websites in order to remain competitive. Almost every organization essentially needs a smooth running network.
Security will continue to be an important issue for businesses and other organizations since so much business is carried out over computer networks. Even though software developers continue to improve their products to reduce vulnerabilities, hackers are becoming ever more complex and sophisticated in their methods. System vulnerabilities need to identified and minimized and their infrastructure protected in order to protect their internets site from hackers, viruses, and other attacks. There should be strong growth for computer managers as security has become a key concern for businesses. Security experts are expected to fill key leadership roles in information technology departments because the integrity of their computing environments is of critical importance. Managers proficient in computer security issues will be in high demand.
The role of computer and information systems managers will continue to evolve given the explosive growth in electronic commerce and the capacity of the Internet to allow businesses to form new customer relationships. Workers who are competent in web applications and Internet technologies will become increasingly important to their companies.
Job opportunities for those who wish to become computer and information systems managers will be dependent upon the growth of the occupations supervised and upon the growth of their industry.
Job prospects. Qualified computer and information systems managers should have excellent prospects for job growth. There will be a wealth of opportunities for qualified individuals as a result of the limited supply of technical workers and fast-paced occupational growth. The demand for technical workers continues to rise even though technical workers remain relatively scarce in the United States. The economic downturn in the early 2000s aggravated this situation when many technical professionals lost their jobs. As a result many workers since then have chosen to avoid this type of work since it is thought to have uncertain job prospects.
The best prospects will come to workers with specialized knowledge and strong communication skills. As companies are increasingly looking to technology to drive their revenue, people with management skills and an understanding of business principles and practices will have excellent job opportunities.
Earnings
Computer and information systems manager’s earnings vary by specialty area and level of responsibility and accountability. In May 2006, the median annual earnings of these managers were $101,580. Managers in the middle 50th percentile earned between $79,240 and $129,250. In May 2006 the median annual earnings in the industries employing the largest numbers of computer and information systems managers were as follows:
- Computer systems design and related services - $109,130
- Management of companies and enterprises - $105,980
- Data processing, hosting, and related services - $105,200
- Insurance carriers - $102,180
- Colleges, universities, and professional schools - $83,280
Based on the Robert Half Technology 2007 Salary Guide, annual salary ranges for various technology positions were as follows: Chief Technology Officer (CTO), $101,000-$157,750; Chief Security Officer, $97,500-$141,000; Vice President of Information Technology, $107,500-$157,750; Information Technology Manager, Technical Services Manager, $62,500-$88,250.
Managers at higher levels often receive employment-related benefits, such as stock option plans, expense accounts, and performance bonuses.
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