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Information Technology
Information Technology
Over the last two decades the rapid spread of computers and computer-based technologies has generated an unforeseen demand for skilled, highly trained information technology professionals to design and develop information, software and hardware systems and determine how to effectively integrate these technologies into new or existing operation, management and information systems. Today, information technology continues to play an increasing integral role in the world economy and the outlook for qualified information technology professionals has never been better.
Corporations are dependant on cutting-edge computer and information technology to operate efficiently in an ever-competitive market driven economy. However, more often than not, these corporations lack the internal resources to effectively implement new technologies required to meet their needs. In these instances, they rely on information technology professionals to help implement technology driven solutions such as setting up a secure website or integrating their traditional brick and mortar business with Internet driven business models. They may also turn to IT professionals to help them manage the data management processes or automate their help-desk support systems.
Services provided by the information technology industry include, but are not limited to the following:
- Computer Systems Management
- Data Administration and Processing
- Facilities Support
- Disaster Recovery
- Software Installation
- Network Administration
- Software Development
- Information Systems Management
- Computer Programming
- Computer Systems Analysis
- Telecommunications Design
Additional, professional services offered within this industry include custom programming, computer systems design, and other specialized information technology related consulting.
With the advent of the World Wide Web electronic business (a.k.a. “e-business”) has also become a major service area where information technology professionals focus much of their time and effort. Due to the phenomenal growth of the Internet and expansion of electronic commerce, many IT firms now focus solely in developing and maintaining websites and e-business systems for their clients. While other IT firms now focus primarily on developing and maintaining intranets and internal computer networks used to link multiple users within an organization using Internet technologies. Some information technology firms also offer consulting services for variety of related services.
With the growing use of the Internet to support mission-critical business operations IT professional have increasingly focused on security. Security threats range from harmful computer viruses, to online fraud and hacking. Information technology services associated with security may include managing firewalls to analyzing system vulnerabilities to providing advanced intrusion and antivirus protection. Information technology (IT) security has two primary focuses: Computer Security, making software and networks safe; and homeland security, keeping track and monitoring of people and information. This growing need for information security is creating a new demand for information technology professionals who specialize in Internet security.
Education and Training
Careers in Information technology require differing levels of education. The level of education or professional training required depends on personal career aspirations and the needs of a given employer. A major factor influencing employer needs is ever-changing technology. In the recent past, there was a very strong demand for workers with Internet related skills and competencies, sending employer scrambling to hire anyone with any Internet related skill sets. However, as the job market for information technology professionals as become more competitive, employers are becoming much more selective about who they hire. Previously, employers have been known to hire applicants with less tradition computer-related education. Today, employers are leaning towards hiring IT professionals with more education and more real-world experience.
While many successful IT professionals hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree, there are no universal educational requirements to have a successful career in information technology. Entry level information technology occupations usually require applicable experience or an associate’s degree in a IT field.
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