Career Development Grid

Computer and Information Systems Managers, also known as IT managers or IT project managers, are responsible for planning, coordinating and directing computer-related activities within an organization. They are responsible for ensuring that the organization’s technology infrastructure supports its overall goals and objectives.
Education and Training Requirements:
To become a Computer and Information Systems Manager, you typically need a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field. Some employers may require a master’s degree in business administration (MBA) with a focus on information systems. Additionally, relevant work experience in the field is usually required.
Typical Job Duties and Responsibilities:
Computer and Information Systems Managers are responsible for managing the organization’s technology infrastructure, including hardware, software, and networks. They oversee the development and implementation of technology projects, manage IT staff, and ensure that the organization’s technology is secure and up-to-date. They also work closely with other departments to identify technology needs and develop solutions to meet those needs.
Earning Potential:
The earning potential for Computer and Information Systems Managers varies depending on the size of the organization and the level of responsibility. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for Computer and Information Systems Managers in May 2020 was $151,150. The earning potential in the long term is also high, with many IT managers advancing to executive positions within the organization.
Opportunities for Career Advancement:
There are many opportunities for career advancement within the field of IT management. Some IT managers may advance to executive positions such as Chief Technology Officer (CTO) or Chief Information Officer (CIO). Others may choose to specialize in a particular area of IT, such as cybersecurity or data analytics.
Challenges and How to Overcome Them:
One of the biggest challenges facing IT managers is keeping up with rapidly changing technology and cybersecurity threats. To overcome these challenges, IT managers must stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies, and implement best practices for cybersecurity.
Gaining Experience and Building a Network:
Gaining experience in IT management can be achieved through internships, entry-level positions, and continuing education. Building a network can be done through professional organizations and attending industry events.
Job Prospects:
The job prospects for Computer and Information Systems Managers are good, with a projected growth rate of 10% from 2019 to 2029, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.
Skills and Qualities for Success:
To succeed in this career, one needs strong leadership

To become a Computer and Information Systems Manager, you typically need a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field. Some employers may prefer candidates with a master’s degree in business administration (MBA) with a focus on information systems.
In addition to formal education, experience in the field is highly valued. Many employers prefer candidates with several years of experience in a related IT position. Some individuals may start out in entry-level IT positions and work their way up to management roles.
Certifications in specific technologies or areas of IT management, such as project management, may also be beneficial for career advancement. Continuing education and staying up-to-date with the latest technology trends is also crucial for success in this field.

Computer and Information Systems Managers, also known as IT managers, are responsible for planning, coordinating, and directing computer-related activities within an organization. Some typical job duties and responsibilities of someone in this career include:
1. Overseeing the installation, maintenance, and upgrading of computer hardware and software systems.
2. Managing the organization’s network security and ensuring that data is protected from unauthorized access or theft.
3. Evaluating new technologies and making recommendations for hardware and software upgrades.
4. Managing a team of IT professionals, including hiring, training, and supervising staff members.
5. Developing and implementing IT policies and procedures to ensure that the organization’s technology infrastructure is efficient, effective, and secure.
6. Collaborating with other departments within the organization to identify technology needs and develop solutions to meet those needs.
7. Managing the IT budget and ensuring that resources are allocated appropriately to meet the organization’s technology needs.
8. Ensuring that the organization’s technology infrastructure is in compliance with relevant laws and regulations.
Overall, Computer and Information Systems Managers are responsible for ensuring that an organization’s technology infrastructure is efficient, effective, and secure, and that it meets the needs of the organization and its stakeholders.

Computer and Information Systems Managers are responsible for planning, coordinating, and directing computer-related activities in an organization. They are responsible for ensuring that an organization’s technology infrastructure is up-to-date, secure, and operating efficiently.
In terms of earning potential, Computer and Information Systems Managers typically earn a high salary in both the short and long term. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for Computer and Information Systems Managers in the United States was $146,360 as of May 2019.
In the short term, those starting out in this career can expect to earn a salary of around $80,000 to $100,000 per year. As they gain experience and move up the ranks, they can expect to earn significantly more. In the long term, experienced Computer and Information Systems Managers can earn upwards of $200,000 per year, depending on their level of responsibility and the size of the organization they work for.
Overall, Computer and Information Systems Management is a lucrative career with strong earning potential in both the short and long term.

The opportunities for career advancement in the field of Computer and Information Systems Managers are vast and varied. Some potential career paths and opportunities for advancement include:
1. Chief Information Officer (CIO) – As the highest-ranking technology executive in an organization, a CIO is responsible for overseeing all aspects of an organization’s technology strategy and implementation.
2. IT Director – An IT Director is responsible for managing a company’s technology infrastructure, including hardware, software, and networks, and ensuring that it aligns with the company’s overall goals and objectives.
3. Project Manager – A Project Manager is responsible for overseeing the planning, implementation, and tracking of specific projects within an organization, often related to technology or software development.
4. Systems Analyst – A Systems Analyst is responsible for analyzing an organization’s current systems and processes, identifying areas for improvement, and developing and implementing new systems and processes to increase efficiency and productivity.
5. Network Administrator – A Network Administrator is responsible for managing an organization’s computer networks, including hardware, software, and security protocols.
6. Database Administrator – A Database Administrator is responsible for managing an organization’s databases, ensuring that they are secure, reliable, and accessible to authorized users.
Overall, the field of Computer and Information Systems Management offers a wide range of opportunities for career advancement, from entry-level positions to executive-level roles. With the continued growth and importance of technology in all industries, the demand for skilled professionals in this field is likely to remain strong in the years to come.

The biggest challenges facing people in the Computer and Information Systems Managers career include:
1. Rapidly changing technology: With technology evolving at a fast pace, it can be a challenge for Computer and Information Systems Managers to keep up with the latest trends and advancements in the field. This can lead to difficulties in making informed decisions about which technologies to adopt.
2. Cybersecurity threats: With the increasing number of cyber-attacks, Computer and Information Systems Managers must ensure that their organization’s systems are secure. This requires a thorough understanding of cybersecurity threats and the ability to implement effective security measures.
3. Managing a diverse team: Computer and Information Systems Managers often lead a team of people with different skill sets and backgrounds. This can make it challenging to manage and motivate the team to work towards a common goal.
To overcome these challenges, Computer and Information Systems Managers can:
1. Stay up-to-date with technology: They can attend conferences, read industry publications, and network with other professionals to stay informed about the latest trends and advancements in technology.
2. Invest in cybersecurity training: They can provide their team with regular cybersecurity training to help them stay up-to-date with the latest threats and security measures.
3. Develop strong leadership skills: They can work on developing their leadership skills to effectively manage and motivate their team. This includes effective communication, delegation, and conflict resolution skills.

1. Gain relevant education and certifications: Pursue a degree in computer science, information technology, or business administration with a focus on information systems. Additionally, obtaining certifications in relevant technologies and software can help you stand out in the job market.
2. Internships and entry-level positions: Look for internships and entry-level positions in IT departments or technology companies. This will provide you with hands-on experience and help you build a network of professionals in the field.
3. Attend industry events and conferences: Attend industry events and conferences to learn about the latest trends and technologies in the field. This is an excellent opportunity to network with professionals and potential employers.
4. Join professional organizations: Joining professional organizations such as the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) or the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) can provide you with access to industry resources, job boards, and networking opportunities.
5. Volunteer for IT projects: Volunteering for IT projects in your community or for non-profit organizations can help you gain valuable experience while also giving back to the community.
6. Build an online presence: Create a professional online presence through social media and professional networking sites such as LinkedIn. This can help you connect with other professionals in the field and showcase your skills and experience to potential employers.

The job prospects for Computer and Information Systems Managers are currently very good, and are expected to remain strong in the future. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of Computer and Information Systems Managers is projected to grow 11 percent from 2018 to 2028, much faster than the average for all occupations.
This growth is driven by the increasing need for organizations to adopt and integrate new technologies, as well as the growing importance of cybersecurity. As businesses continue to rely more heavily on technology to operate and grow, there will be a continued demand for professionals who can manage and maintain these systems.
Additionally, the rise of cloud computing, big data, and the Internet of Things (IoT) is expected to create new opportunities for Computer and Information Systems Managers. These technologies require specialized knowledge and expertise to implement and manage effectively, and professionals who can do so will be in high demand.
Overall, the future looks bright for Computer and Information Systems Managers, and those with the right skills and experience should have no trouble finding employment in this field.

To succeed as a Computer and Information Systems Manager, the following skills and qualities are important:
1. Technical knowledge: A strong understanding of computer systems, software, hardware, networks, and other related technologies is crucial.
2. Leadership: As a manager, you will be responsible for leading a team of professionals. Excellent leadership skills are necessary to motivate and guide your team towards success.
3. Communication: Effective communication skills are essential to convey complex technical information to non-technical personnel and to communicate with stakeholders, customers, and team members.
4. Analytical skills: The ability to analyze complex data, identify trends, and make informed decisions is vital in this role.
5. Problem-solving: A Computer and Information Systems Manager must be able to identify and solve problems quickly and efficiently.
6. Strategic thinking: The ability to think strategically and develop long-term plans is important to ensure the organization’s technology needs are met.
7. Adaptability: The technology industry is constantly changing, and a successful Computer and Information Systems Manager must be adaptable to new technologies and trends.
8. Time management: The ability to manage time effectively is crucial to meet deadlines and ensure projects are completed on time and within budget.
9. Attention to detail: A Computer and Information Systems Manager must have a keen eye for detail to ensure that systems are functioning correctly and data is accurate.
10. Business acumen: Understanding the business and financial aspects of technology is important to make informed decisions that align with the organization’s goals and objectives.

The demand for Computer and Information Systems Managers is high in various sectors and industries, including:
1. Information technology (IT) companies
2. Financial services
3. Healthcare
4. Government agencies
5. Education sector
6. Retail and e-commerce
7. Manufacturing
8. Consulting firms
9. Telecommunications
10. Media and entertainment
These industries rely heavily on technology and require skilled professionals to manage their computer and information systems effectively. Therefore, there is a constant need for Computer and Information Systems Managers in these sectors.

Common misconceptions about Computer and Information Systems Managers include:
1. They only work with computers all day: While Computer and Information Systems Managers do work with technology, their job is not limited to just working with computers. They also manage teams of people, oversee budgets, and make strategic decisions for their organization.
2. They only need technical skills: While technical skills are important for this role, Computer and Information Systems Managers also need strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills. They need to be able to manage people and projects effectively, and communicate technical information to non-technical stakeholders.
3. They only work in the tech industry: While Computer and Information Systems Managers are often employed in the tech industry, they are also needed in many other industries such as healthcare, finance, and government.
The reality is that Computer and Information Systems Managers are responsible for planning, coordinating, and directing computer-related activities in an organization. They oversee the installation and maintenance of hardware and software, manage teams of IT professionals, and ensure that technology is aligned with the organization’s goals and objectives. They also work closely with other departments to identify and implement technology solutions that can improve business processes and increase efficiency. To be successful in this role, Computer and Information Systems Managers need a combination of technical and soft skills, and must be able to adapt to changing technology and business needs.