A computer and information systems manager oversees and implements computer-related activities within their organization. They work with top executives and senior management to determine current and future computing system needs for the purposes of strategic IT planning. In order to be effective, computer and information systems managers must remain up-to-date on the latest trends and advances in computing system solutions, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Job Description
A computer and information systems manager will be a senior technical systems professional who is responsible for identifying, evaluating, developing and pursuing new computer system opportunities. They direct research and analysis in order to create plans and strategies to solve old business problems or create new solutions. They may work closely with market and customer service researchers to identify issues and evaluate opportunities. When project plans are finalized, they will contact division or departmental heads, interview them to understand their problems from their perspective and adjust the proposed technical solutions.
Sometimes, they must independently analyze and recommend their own solutions that managers may disagree with or dislike. They must then directly capture and understand the perspective of effected business area in order to make persuasive presentations to key stakeholders. Once an agreement is reached, they lead and participate in the development of strategic business plans and project management road maps. They offer an understanding of the technical components of the organization by participating in regular technical meetings, proposal reviews and IT committee sessions. They must understand financial, budgeting, scheduling and procurement processes for various projects.
Job Expectations
Computer and information systems managers must be comfortable traveling because they will need to continually attend workshops, conferences, industry shows, trade events and association meetings. They may oversee and supervise anywhere from 10 to 30 employees at any given time. They must know how to develop and align budget and scheduling requirements for IT projects. Some employers expect them to be proficient in standard project management server technologies like SAN, AIX, HP-Unix and WebSphere.
They will need experience giving formal presentations and regularly speaking informally with senior management. They must have demonstrated relationship building skills in order to understand and implement risk management initiatives within projects. Most computer and information systems managers have a minimum 10 years’ experience in IT and five years’ managerial experience. They must know how to successfully administer various enterprise technology solutions within their organizations. They must know how to direct research on the computer-related proposal activities.
Health Care Career Example
A computer and information systems manager who is employed by a network of hospitals will perform analysis, support IT work and help maintain compliance with reporting and privacy regulations. They may primarily work on SQL servers and integration services. They provide continual support for the maintenance of various software applications, such as online health care consumer platforms and electronic health record information systems.
When it comes to upgrades and new solutions, they must identify user needs, determine potential resolutions and rapidly implement recommendations. They must know how to respond to system issues, design customized solutions and install software applications. They must have a strong understanding of computer science principles and computer systems theories. They must independently detect, isolate and resolve application problems. They provide system support for development, production and end user training.
Related Resource: MBA with an MIS Concentration
A computer and information systems manager should have at least a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology or information systems management.
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