Introduction to Information Technology (FCOM 123): Careers in IT

IT is a relatively diverse but incredibly popular field of study and work that is quickly reaching (or has reached, according to certain sources) a saturation point in Malaysia, career-wise. This may have much to do with the general perception that IT, being a rapidly developing field is the 'in' thing to do, supposedly ensuring a stable and successful future. In certain ways the bandwagon effect may play a major role in the general state of affairs (thought admittedly, the same thing could be said about any other field, depending on its apparent popularity among a specific group of acquaintances, at least on a pre-university level).

This post will briefly explain the variety of careers in the aforementioned field (and sound like a cheap online guide in the process).

1. Webmaster

Also known as a web developer, a webmaster is tasked with the maintenance of the proper functioning of one or more websites. A webmaster's duties may also extend to ensuring the accurate operation of web servers and their software, building and designing a website and examining a website's traffic. Hence, a webmaster typically requires skills in HTML coding and scripting languages such as PHP and Javascript as well as the technical know-how to manage web servers as a server administrator. Depending on the nature of the website managed, creativity and a good sense of ergonomics are favourable traits in a webmaster.

2. Computer Support Specialist

In a nutshell, computer support specialists help people use computers. They often help solve system-related issues encountered by end users or educate them on how to perform specific tasks on their systems. Many computer support specialists work through the phone, e-mail or even offer live chat services. They may also help face-to-face. Computer support specialists may also install hardware, software and teach people how to use them verbally or through instruction manuals that they may write. Some computer support specialists may monitor the systems in a local area network or place daily to ensure that they are functioning properly. A computer support specialist is required to be well-equipped in terms of knowledge on the inner workings of computer systems. They should also be good listeners, problem solvers and are able to articulately give clear and concise instructions.

3. Technical Writer

Technical writing is a very diverse field that is not limited to IT alone. While technical writers may prepare user manuals and documentation for system software (most notably the 'Help' section) and hardware, they may also cover industrial machinery as well as design and engineering specifications for construction projects. Technical writers require the skill to prepare clear and effective written communication and a broad knowledge in the field in which they work.

4. Software Engineer

The meaning of the term 'software engineer' is still highly debated, but it is often used interchangably with the terms 'software developer' and 'programmer'. Software engineers apply the principles of software engineering - the application of a systematic, disciplined, quantifiable approach to the development, operation and maintenance of software - to the development and evaluation of software and systems that make anything containing the software work. Software engineers are generally expected to have programming skills and knowledge in programming languages such as C++. Good problem-solving and analytical skills are generally favourable in a software engineer.

5. Network Administrator

Network administrators are tasked with the responsibility over and maintenance of computer networks and are usually familiar with major networking products such as those from Cisco Systems. They are responsible for overseeing the installation and updates to any software and hardware on the network and are often consulted regarding the creation of a new network or upgrades on a current network. A network administrator usually has an account with master access credentials on a network, allowing he or she to interact with any function in the system. Like many other IT careers, good problem-solving and analytical skills are favourable in a network administrator.

6. Database Administrator

Like network administrators, database administrators have responsibility over and are tasked with the maintenance of a database environment including designing and implementing the system in addition to establishing policies and procedures involving the management, security, maintenance and use of the database system. Database administrators are expected to have good managerial skills and experience with major database management products such as Structured Query Language (SQL) and Oracle-based database management software.

7. System Analyst

A system analyst is a middleman, assessing the needs of end users and translating them into programming or forwarding the programming needs to an appropriate department. System analysts are responsible for researching, planning, coordinating and recommending software and system choices to meet an organisation's needs. Companies generally favour system analysts with programming backgrounds. Analytical, technical, managerial and interpersonal skills are also favoured.

8. Programmer

A programmer is a person that writes computer software. Similar to software engineers, programmers require a solid programming background including proficiency in a programming language. A programmer's primary programming language is often prefixed to their title. There is much debate over the usage of the term 'programmer' being used interchangably with 'software engineer', but the general consensus is that 'software engineer' sounds more credible. One (not necessarily accurate) way to view it is that while programmers may code any kind of program in general, software engineers are more specialised and/or take on some roles of a systems analyst.