Information Systems Manager

Information Systems Manager Career Overview

Information systems managers work to ensure the security of sensitive digital information for companies by planning, coordinating, and directing company-wide computer activities. Just a few of the many tasks an information systems manager may be responsible for include installing and upgrading hardware and software, ensuring the security of corporate computer networks, implementing Internet and intranet sites, assisting with web page development, monitoring online sales, and overseeing email responses to customers and clients.

As the leaders of many companies' computer technology teams, information systems managers are often called upon to direct the work of systems analysts, computer programmers, support specialists, and other computer-related workers. Those working in the field should have extensive knowledge of all types of technology since they will often serve as a hands-on troubleshooter for any company employees who may be experiencing problems with their computers or phones. In addition, he or she may often be asked to help employees who telecommute from remote locations log onto corporate servers. Finally, some upper level information systems managers may be asked to collaborate with top executives to develop company-wide technological and business goals.

Information Systems Manager Training and Education

Information systems managers must have an expertise in technology and knowledge of business fundamentals, both of which are usually learned through a college-level program in management information systems, computer sciences, or a related field. Although specific job requirements vary by employer, nearly all information systems managers are required to have at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited university. Increasingly, companies prefer to hire candidates who have obtained a master's in business degree (MBA) with an education emphasis in technology, as well. It is important that anyone hoping to become an information systems manager gains a broad set of computer skills while still in school, since employers are looking to hire professionals with experience using a variety of software systems.

For many aspiring information systems managers, the first step out of college is a job as a systems analyst, computer support specialist, or programmer. These positions are often used as stepping stones for those hoping to climb the corporate ladder and eventually land a job as an information systems manager.

Information Systems Manager Career/Salary Outlook

Thanks largely to the increasing use to computers in the workplace, the job outlook for information systems managers is expected to be highly favorable over the next decade. According to a 2006 report by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for those in the field is expected to grow by 16 percent through the year 2016, as new forms of technology continue entering the workplace and driving the demand for qualified systems managers.

Although earnings for information systems managers vary by specialty and level of responsibility, the BLS reports those entering the field can expect to earn a median salary of $101,580 a year, with the middle 50 percent of systems managers earning between $79,240 and $129,250.

Characteristics of Successful Information Systems Managers

To be successful on the job, information systems managers must have strong interpersonal, leadership, and communications skills, along with the advanced technological and business skills learned in school.

Because many information systems managers serve as the heads of their departments and oversee teams of professionals, they should be adept at handling conflict resolution, and possess the ability to collaborate on group projects frequently.

Beyond that, information systems managers should be able to explain complex computer formulas and functions to upper-level executives at their company, many of whom may have little technical understanding. This also applies to company clients and customers, who may occasionally be referred to systems managers to help sort out computer problems and other technical glitches.

Article Resources

Bureau of Labor Statistics
http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos258.htm
http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes113021.htm

The Index of Information Systems Journals
MISQ Central
Bournemouth University—Business Information Systems Websites