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An Information Technology (IT) manager leads computer-related initiatives across an organization in order to meet business needs. They often plan projects, coordinate with stakeholders, and manage staff working on those projects. They are ultimately responsible in ensuring their staff or department completes projects successfully. Watch a video to learn what an information technology manager does.
How to Become a Computer Information System Manager
First, let’s cover that IT managers can have a few titles. According to O*Net Online, most IT managers surveyed held titles such as IT Director, MIS Director (which means Management Information Systems Director), and Technical Services Manager. The majority of these managers that responded held at least a bachelor’s degree.
You will most likely need to gain a bachelor’s degree in computer science, programming, or information technology to get your foot in the door. To become an IT manager, you’ll need a blend of education and work experience.
Job Description of a Computer Information System Manager
An IT manager would need to prioritize a business’s technology goals and assign projects to staff and oversee that those projects were completed successfully and within the needed timeframe. In this regard, an IT manager would have project management skills. They would also look at a company’s IT budget and ensure technology requirements stay within that budget or make recommendations to increase that budget. They also interact with others in the business to gather company needs. This also includes working with vendors and contractors when necessary.
IT managers generally oversee a highly technical staff. They must also ensure their staff are trained and receive ongoing training so they can support business needs. Technology changes often, and those in the IT field must be continual learners even after they have earned their degree.
Computer Information System Manager Career Video Transcript
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.
Article Citations
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Computer and Information Systems Managers.
National Center for O*NET Development. 11-3021.00. O*NET OnLine.
The career video is in the public domain from the U. S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration.