Information Systems Manager
Information Systems Manager Career Overview
The position of an information systems manager combines two skill sets: a deep understanding of business operations and a high degree of technical knowledge. An information systems manager oversees an organization's computer specialists, including programmers, database administrators, computer security experts, and systems analysts. It is the information systems manager's responsibility to ensure that the entire system functions smoothly and in the best interest of the organization. Working closely with other top managers, an information systems manager determines and oversees a business's technical needs.
Information Systems Manager Salary Outlook
Since an information systems manager may be one of the top executives in an organization, compensation can be excellent. As with any job, salaries vary along with an employee's experience and level of responsibility. However, the median salary for information systems managers in 2006 was $101,580, with the top 10% of earners in this field making over $145,600 per year.
Where an Information Systems Degree Will Take You
Since this is a managerial position, a minimum of a bachelor's degree is usually required (most often in information management, information science, or computer science), with many employers preferring an MBA with a heavy focus in technology. It is helpful for a prospective information systems manager to have technical certifications beyond a bachelor's or master's degree. Those with an associate's degree may choose to obtain additional degrees and certifications while working in order to increase their likelihood of a promotion.
Characteristics of Succesful IS Managers
The three most critical traits for an information systems manager are high-level technical skills, the ability to communicate well with both technical and non-technical coworkers, and a solid understanding of business. An information systems manager makes decisions that have a major impact on both the day-to-day tasks and the long-term goals of an organization, so understanding how a business functions is essential. Being able to analyze and predict a company's technological needs, develop a coherent plan to address those needs, and then explain that plan to other executives are fundamental pieces of an information systems manager's job.
An information systems manager has an unparalleled opportunity to make an impact on the way a company does business. Furthermore, the job prospects for this career are excellent; as technology grows in complexity and plays an even more fundamental role in business, good information systems managers will be in great demand.
Career Fields/Specializations
Chief Technology Officer
A CTO (chief technology officer) stays on top of the latest technological developments and determines how new technology may be helpful to the organization. He or she manages the information technology infrastructure of the company and oversees the implementation of technological strategy, working closely with other managers.
Information Technology Director
IT (Information Technology) directors manage the hardware and software infrastructure of an organization. Duties may include overseeing system security, updating software as required, managing an internal help desk, and troubleshooting system problems. He or she may also oversee employee training in system use or new software packages.
Information Systems Project Manager
Project managers work on specific technology-related tasks within an organization, for instance, updating security measures or managing the development of specialized information applications.
Article Resources:
U.S. Department of Laborhttp://bls.gov/oco/ocos258.htm
http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes113021.htm
