Information Technology (IT) - Career Profile
Information technology is the broad subject concerned with all aspects of managing and processing information. Due to the growing dependence on information in all aspects of our modern life, the value and importance of IT experts (whatever their specialization) cannot be emphasized enough. Different specializations within the IT field are numerous. We will cover three broad & diverse fields of employment which are programming, networking, and web applications.
Definitions
Programming
Programmers are people who know computer languages, and who use them to build application software. There are many different computer languages such as Visual Basic, C++, and Delphi. Programmers write a code (a series of technical instructions) that makes the computer perform certain tasks. This code is a series of logical statements and procedures for processing specific scientific, mathematical, business, or technical data. They work closely with system analysts and since they develop specialized programs, they also often work closely with accountants, managers, scientists, engineers, etc. Traditionally, programming work focused on the design, enhancement, and usability of application software. However, as the IT market evolves, programmers' work is increasingly tied to the Internet and other technologies.
Networking
Networking specialists are those who set up computer networks. A computer network is like a network of roads that connect destinations together and that give people from one side of the city access to places on the other side. A computer network allows users of the network to share information and resources. The network usually consists of a server, multiple computers, and cables. The networking specialist is responsible for setting it up and making sure that the connection is fast and reliable. Some of the common network operating systems are Windows, Mac, Linux, and Netware.
Web Applications
This includes all computing that involves the Internet. A common example is web development which is simply programming for a website on the World Wide Web. There is also everything that involves the website; maintaining the servers, managing the databases, etc.
Job Titles Include
System Analyst
Analysts study problems and formulate solutions in the form of computer programs. They identify problems to study, form objectives, and gather information to analyze, as well as present possible methods to solve these problems. They then test the validity of their solutions and finally, they prepare specifications for how to best implement the solution and meet the desired objectives. Analysts must be able to understand the needs of the user of the system and translate the needs into logical steps to give to programmers to write the codes.
Network Adminstrator
>These are the godfathers of technology within any organization. They must know everything about the company's information technology. They insure the performance of the web servers, manage the mail servers, supervise the operation of all employees' computers, and they manage all networks that the organization runs. Common tasks that they perform include optimizing network performance, setting up employee email accounts, and giving access to multiple users to a printer.
C++ Programmer,
Visual Basic programmer
These programmers use these computer languages to develop application software. Visual Basic is an easy and fast way to develop database programs as well as games. C++ on the other hand is a more difficult language that is used to develop sophisticated software.
Web Developer
Web developers conceive of the website strategy. They figure out the hardware that the site should use and the software necessary to make it function properly. They also program the site so that it functions effectively and set up reporting tools and databases to record traffic to the site.
Web Master
The Webmaster used to be the one person fully in charge of a company's website. He or she would manage the servers, do programming, correspond with content providers (writers or other), and perform graphic design work. But that has mostly changed now and webmasters perform a similar job to that of web developers. Their responsibilities may include site monitoring, server administration, programming, and sometimes, graphic design. Webmasters have more of a managerial job of the website.
Database Adminstrator
This person's main job is to build, sustain, and repair a company's database(s). In addition to developing and updating these databases, administrators also monitor their performance and insure the security of their information. Database administration can involve programming, the Internet, and networking. That is because a database can be shared on a network, on the Internet, and can be programmed for classification of the stored data.
Featured Employers
Here are some of the most prominent companies in the field:
Microsoft, Lucent Technology, Oracle, Sun Microsystems, Apple, IBM, Sisco, NCR, Sakhr, Orascom, Pyramid Technology.
Education & Skills profile
Education Required
A Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Communications or MIS (management information systems). You can also qualify by attending any of the many IT certificates offered.
Enhancements & Certificates
Masters in Computer Science. Some of the popular certificates are: Microsoft Certified System Engineer (MCSE), Microsoft Certified Solution Developer (MCSD), and Microsoft Certified Database Administrator (MCDBA).
(There are many different courses and programs offered in IT, these are just three of the most common).
Computer Skills
Excellent computer skills. Different computer languages and software are required according to the industry and position. Some examples include Visual Basic, Dreamweaver and Microsoft Frontpage.
Experience Required
The experience required varies according to position. Being a young industry, there is usually more focus on skills then on experience, although experience will always be a plus.
Additional Skills
A programmer must have a constructive mind. He or she must have an ability to build since a program is a series of logical and sequential commands that add up to make one whole component.
They should also have a solution-orientated mind; since they often are expected to develop software that addresses certain problems, they should be able to creatively devise solutions.
Job Vacancies in IT
To search for job vacancies in your country alone, go to our job search page, select the IT field and the country you are in, and press Search.