The need for organizations to incorporate existing and future
technologies in order to remain competitive has become a more pressing
issue over the last several years. As electronic commerce becomes more
common, how and when companies use technology are critical issues.
Computer and information systems managers play a vital role in the
technological direction of their organizations. They do everything from
constructing the business plan to overseeing network security to
directing Internet operations.
Computer and information systems
managers plan, coordinate, and direct research and design the
computer-related activities of firms. They help determine both
technical and business goals in consultation with top management, and
make detailed plans for the accomplishment of these goals. For example,
working with their staff, they may develop the overall concepts of a
new product or service, or may identify how an organization’s computing
capabilities can effectively aid project management.
Computer and information systems managers direct the work of systems analysts,
computer programmers, support specialists, and other computer-related
workers. These managers plan and coordinate activities such as
installation and upgrading of hardware and software, programming and
systems design, development of computer networks, and implementation of
Internet and intranet sites. They are increasingly involved with the
upkeep and maintenance and security of networks. They analyze the
computer and information needs of their organization, from an
operational and strategic perspective, and determine immediate and
long-range personnel and equipment requirements. They assign and review
the work of their subordinates, and stay abreast of the latest
technology in order to assure the organization does not lag behind
competitors.
The duties of computer and information systems managers vary with their specific titles. Chief technology officers, for example, evaluate the newest and most innovative technologies and
determine how these can help their organization. The chief technology
officer, who often reports to the organization’s chief information
officer, manages and plans technical standards and tends to the daily
information technology issues of the firm. (Chief information officers
are covered in a separate Handbook statement on
top executives.) Because of the rapid pace of technological change, chief technology officers must constantly
be on the lookout for developments that could benefit their
organization. They are responsible for demonstrating to a company how
information technology can be used as a competitive tool that not only
cuts costs, but also increases revenue and maintains or increases
competitive advantage.
Management information systems (MIS) directors manage
information systems and computing resources for their entire
organization. They may also work under the chief information officer
and plan and direct the work of subordinate information technology
employees. These managers oversee a variety of user services such as an
organization’s help desk, which employees can call with questions or
problems. MIS directors also may make hardware and software upgrade
recommendations based on their experience with an organization’s
technology. Helping to assure the availability, continuity, and
security of data and information technology services are key
responsibilities for these workers.
Project managers develop requirements, budgets, and schedules for their firm’s information
technology projects. They coordinate such projects from development
through implementation, working with internal and external clients,
vendors, consultants, and computer specialists. These managers are
increasingly involved in projects that upgrade the information security
of an organization.
LAN/WAN (Local Area Network/Wide Area Network) managers provide a variety of services, from design to administration, of an
organization’s local area network, which connects staff within an
organization. These managers direct the network, and its related
computing environment, including hardware, systems software,
applications software, and all other computer-related configurations.
Computer and information system managers need strong communication
skills. They coordinate the activities of their unit with those of
other units or organizations. They confer with top executives;
financial, production, marketing, and other managers; and contractors
and equipment and materials suppliers.
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