Computer and Information Technology Occupations, Research Paper Example

Information Technology Department

The purpose of the information technology (IT) department in an organization is to support the business functions and manage resources. Merriam-Webster defines information technology as “the technology involving the development, maintenance, and use of computer systems, software, and networks for the processing and distribution of data”(Merriam-Webster, 2015). There are various key roles within the IT department such as computer programmers, Web developers, database administrators, information security analysts, network systems administrators, and technical support analysts.

Computer Programmers

Computer programmers write source code to develop new software programs for an organization. These include proprietary programs that are specific to the organization’s needs, rather than for commercial use(BLS, 2015).

Web Developers

Web developers are responsible for creating and maintaining the organization’s website and Intranet. They design the website’s layout and run tests to ensure the usability of the site. In addition, web developers must ensure that the all links and other technical aspects of the website work. They are also responsible for ensuring efficient performance of the website to enhance user experience(BLS, 2015).

Database Administrators

Database administrators are responsible for organizing data and storing the organized data in databases. This data includes the organizations core business information such as customer information and financial data. It also includes employee records and other important information. Database administrators ensure that data is easily accessible to users(BLS, 2015).

Information Security Analysts

Information security analysts ensure the safety and security of the organization’s computer and network systems. They are responsible for protecting the organization’s sensitive information from cyberattacks and unscrupulous access(BLS, 2015). This includes via email, Internet use, employee breach (intentional or unintentional such as inadvertently infecting the company computer system with a virus from a flash drive), etc. Also, sensitive customer information is protected such as account numbers or protected health information.

Network Systems Administrators

Network systems administrators install and set up computer networks for the organization. They are responsible for smooth operations and performance of all computer software and technical capabilities. They ensure that the company’s network systems function properly from day to day. In addition, they solve and resolve technical problems and make necessary repairs to the system (BLS, 2015).

Technical Support Analysts

Technical support analysts are available to assist users of the organization’s computer and network systems. They also are responsible for installing software and troubleshooting any problems that employees have with the software. They also set up hardware and ensure peripherals and systems work properly. In addition, they serve as support at the IT help desk(BLS, 2015).

Conclusion

The IT department of an organization is vital to the successful operations of the organization and supporting major functions for successfully running the business. Managing information resources is as important as managing capital, labor, and raw materials. Therefore, it is imperative that an organization is diligent in hiring the best employees possible in the IT department to manage its information resources. In addition, information technology is good for the economy, as it boosts innovation in many important fields, such as the medical field. It is a necessary field in the global economy and for continued expansion and growth into the future(Atkinson & McKay, 2007).

References

Atkinson, R. D., & McKay, A. S. (2007, March). Digital Prosperity. Retrieved from Information Technology & Innovation Foundation: http://www.itif.org/files/digital_prosperity.pdf

BLS. (2015). Computer and Information Technology Occupations. Retrieved from Bureau of Labor Statistics: http://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/home.htm

Merriam-Webster. (2015). Information Technology. Retrieved from Merriam-Webster: http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/information%20technology