As the world of business continues to evolve, one of the most predominant areas of change is within the arena of technology. Technology, in many cases, is the very foundation organizations rely on as it offers not just a framework for success, but it's very identity. With so much depending on a staff who can manage and process information systems, hardware systems, financial transactions, data storage, and communications, it is imperative that organizations find well-trained and capable Information Technology Managers.
Specifics of IT Management
Sometimes referred to as Computer and Information Systems Management or Information Project Management, Information Technology (IT) Management deals with all the management of computer-based activities within an organization. An IT Manager will often be responsible for planning the IT goals within an organization and then work with teams, both technical and non-technical, in order to execute those goals within the organization. IT Management must stay up to date on all the latest technologies and be able to communicate directives to other department managers and employees in accounting, finance, marketing, production, and shipping.
Responsibilities of an IT Manager
In the simplest of terms, an IT Manager is a problem solver. As a business grows or issues arise, it will often fall on the IT Manager to create an operating system or software which will help those in sales, service, or manufacturing be efficient or run smoother. A newly hired IT manger may adopt an inferior operating system structure and it may be up to him or her to make necessary adjustments in software capacity and performance. Besides the technical responsibilities attached to the position, an IT Manager must also be able to communicate in technical and non-technical environments. Managing a technical team means being a creative decision-maker and drawing the best work from analysts and code writers. Being able to train non-technical staff on ways to use software is another role the IT Manager must play. IT Managers must also be prepared to field questions and problems from department heads and general managers or CEOs. These types will rely heavily on an IT Manager's knowledge and creativity in order to fix a problem quickly.
An IT Manager's Workplace Environment
According to the United States Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics' report, over 367,000 IT and Computer Information Systems Managers were employed over 2016 with nearly a fifth of them being employed within the "computer systems design and related services" field. Information, finance and insurance, management of companies and enterprises, and manufacturing were the other high-reporting industries for IT Managers. As one might expect, most IT Management positions are full-time employment opportunities which will often include 40+ hour weeks. While some IT managers can work remotely it is more common to be onsite with access to IT systems, staff, and manufacturing.
Job Outlook for IT Management
Employment opportunities in the fields of Computer and Information Systems and IT Management are projected to increase far above the national average at a rate of 12% until 2026. Industry insiders are confident pursuing a career in IT Management is a wise choice as more corporations and organizations will shift their business paradigm to a digital platform.
The future looks bright for IT Management. It will only continue to grow in desirability as businesses realize they must stay current in the ways of technology or be left behind. For the business professional interested in technology and leading others in an organization, the position of an IT Manager is a wise choice.