Computer and Information Systems Manager
A Computer and Information Systems Manager, often referred to as an IT manager, plays a crucial role in overseeing the technical operations of an organization. This position involves organizing, directing, and coordinating various computer-related fields, including data processing, network security, and systems analysis. Managers in this profession are tasked with setting IT goals and ensuring that computer systems are effectively implemented to meet those objectives. Typically employed in office environments, they may work for IT services firms, financial organizations, or government bodies, and with advancements in communication technology, many also have the option to telecommute.
To excel, individuals in this role usually possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills and hold at least a bachelor’s degree in fields like computer science or business. They often collaborate with other IT personnel, systems analysts, and technology vendors to assess and fulfill the organization's technology needs. Daily responsibilities may include planning system upgrades, ensuring data security, and managing budgets while negotiating with technology suppliers. This profession is seeing rapid growth, with an employment outlook significantly above average, making it an attractive career choice for those interested in technology and management.
Computer and Information Systems Manager
Snapshot
Career Cluster(s): Business, Management & Administration, Information Technology, Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics
Interests: Computer systems, analyzing data, solving problems, communicating with others
Earnings (Yearly Average): $169,510 per year $81.50 per hour
Employment & Outlook: 15% (Much faster than average)
Entry-Level Education Bachelor's degree
Related Work Experience 5 years or more
On-the-job-Training None
Overview
Sphere of Work. Computer and information systems managers, also known as information technology (IT) managers, are responsible for organizing, directing, and coordinating operations in a variety of computer-related fields, such as electronic data processing, network security, and systems analysis. They help to establish the IT goals of a company and oversee implementation of computer systems to successfully meet these goals. IT managers consult with technology users, vendors, and technicians to help assess a company’s IT needs and system requirements.
Work Environment. Computer and information systems managers typically work within an office environment. Most managers work directly for computer systems design and IT services firms. Other managers work for financial firms, manufacturing firms, or government offices on a federal, state, or local level. As communications technologies improve, it is not uncommon for computer and information systems managers to telecommute. Most managers work full-time during the week. Some overtime may be required.
Occupation Interest. The computer and information systems profession normally appeals to people who have strong analytical and problem-solving skills and a solid background in computer systems. New innovations in computer systems mean that an IT manager must stay on top of the latest technologies to remain competitive. The profession tends to attract people who enjoy collaborating with others to solve problems. Most managers enter the profession with a computer science or business degree, but many others come from diverse career backgrounds.
A Day in the Life—Duties and Responsibilities. Computer and information systems managers apply their knowledge and problem-solving skills to improve the computer systems of an organization. They must be able to collaborate with employees and others in the IT field. The workday of a computer and information systems manager can vary, depending on the organization’s specific field. Meetings with other managers, technology vendors, and IT personnel are common.
Throughout the day, a manager helps plan, organize, and direct the installation and upgrading of the organization’s computer hardware and software. They work with others in IT to make sure the organization’s network and electronic data are secure. Part of their daily routine usually entails assigning and reviewing the work of others in IT, including systems analysts and programmers. Before a new or modified computer system or program is implemented, a manager must review and approve it. During all of these activities, managers adhere to their organization’s operational budget; in order to maintain this budget, they need to negotiate with technology vendors.
It is rare for one manager to perform all of these duties. Most managers have a specialty position and work in a specific IT team of an organization. For example, a chief technology officer (CTO) will assess new technologies and determine if they will be a benefit to an organization, while a chief information officer (CIO) is in charge of directing the organization’s overall technology strategy. If an organization does not have a CIO, then the CTO typically handles those responsibilities.
Information Technology Directors. Information Technology Directors manage the computer resources for their organization.
Project Managers. Project Managers develop requirements, budgets, and schedules for their organization’s information technology projects.
Work Environment
Immediate Physical Environment. Computer and information systems managers spend the majority of their workday in well-lit office environments. The specifics of the environment vary depending on the organization that employs them.
Human Environment. Collaboration and communication are essential to the job of a computer and information systems manager. To accurately assess the needs and goals of an organization’s system, a manager has to collaborate with IT personnel, systems analysts, and technology vendors. Managers usually have to negotiate prices with technology vendors.
Technological Environment. Computer and information systems managers work with a large assortment of computer systems, hardware, and software. Each system is different, depending on the organization’s field. If a manager is telecommuting, a variety of communication technologies can be used, including a laptop or smartphone.
Education, Training, and Advancement
High School/Secondary. Employers typically require applicants to have at least a high school diploma or an equivalent degree, although most positions in the field require a bachelor’s degree or higher. High schools normally offer an assortment of classes that an individual interested in the profession can benefit from. Any courses in computer science, mathematics, and business management would help an aspiring IT manager develop a good background for the profession. Some high schools even offer extracurricular computer clubs, where the fundamentals of computer systems can be learned.
Postsecondary. Typically, a computer and information systems manager must have at least a bachelor’s degree. While managers enter the field from a variety of different educational backgrounds, the majority of them have degrees in computer science, information science, or a related field. Most managers have taken courses in computer programming, advanced mathematics, and software development. Because of the various business aspects of the profession, many managers also have completed business-related courses.
Some employers require that a manager have a graduate degree. A common graduate degree for a manager is a Master of Business Administration (MBA), which typically takes two years to complete. It is common for people pursuing their MBAs to take these classes in the evenings, after work, thereby gaining work experience while also completing their graduate studies.
Most technical schools offer computer science or programming programs. These programs typically last from six months to a year. Students are given formal classroom instruction as well as hands-on training. Technical schools are a great place for an individual to network with more experienced people in the field. Many of these schools also offer job placement programs.
Because new developments in computer technology are occurring regularly, managers should be willing to pursue professional development courses throughout their careers to stay competitive and relevant.
Related Occupations
− General Manager & Top Executive
− Information Security Analyst
− Information Technology Project Manager
− Medical Records Administrator
− Network & Computer Systems Administrator
Bibliography
Bureau of Labor Statistics, US Dept of Labor. “Computer and Information Systems Managers.” Occupational Outlook Handbook. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 17 Apr. 2024, www.bls.gov/ooh/management/computer-and-information-systems-managers.htm. Accessed 28 Aug. 2024.