What is Information Technology (IT)?

Information technology refers to everything that industries use computers for. Information technology creates communication networks for a company, protects data and information, creates and maintains databases, helps employees troubleshoot problems with their computers or mobile devices, or performs other tasks to ensure the efficiency and security of corporate information systems. The request for specialists in this field remains high and growing, and people entering this field have several careers to choose from

Information Technology

“information technology” dates back to a 1958 article published in the Harvard Commercial Review. Authors Harold J. Leavitt and Thomas L. Whisler have defined several types of information technology:

  • Fast information processing techniques.
  • The use of statistical and mathematical replicas to make decisions.
  • The “Simulation of Higher-Order Thought by Computer Programs”.

“While many aspects of this technology remain uncertain, it seems clear that it will quickly enter the managerial scene, with clear and profound implications for the managerial organization,” they wrote.

Six decades later, it’s rich that Leavitt and Whisler were up to something big. Today, information technology refers to everything that industries use computers for. For example, information technology creates communication networks for a company, protects data and information, creates and maintains databases, helps employees troubleshoot problems with their computers or mobile devices, or performs other tasks to ensure corporate information systems’ efficiency and security.

Information Technology Examples

For IT career paths, examples range from small consulting firms to large multinationals and from highly technical specialties to managerial leaders requiring solid people skills. Here are some examples of possible routes:

Computer Support Specialist:

These positions require a bachelor’s degree and are ideal if you enjoy answering computer software and hardware questions, configuring equipment, and training computer users. Individuals in this position must understand many types of software, including database interface programs, environmental tool development, and operating system software. According to the BLS, the median annual salary for this job is $53,000, and positions in this field are growing at a higher-than-average rate.

Computer Network And Systems Administrator:

This job often requires a bachelor’s degree in a computer-related field, although some employers only need an associate’s degree or a postsecondary certificate. Regardless, these jobs are frequently available to professionals with no prior work experience in the field. The BLS reported they paid an average salary of $82,000 in 2018 to troubleshoot network issues. To perform this job, you should be familiar with database management software, network monitoring, and web platform development tools.

Computer Network Architect:

It is a career ladder for a network administrator and typically requires a bachelor’s degree and prior computer experience. People in this location design and build intranets, local area networks (LANs), and comprehensive area systems (WANs). Given the BLS, the median salary for this type of job in 2018 was $109,000. Network architects often need to understand various software systems, including management tools, development environment software, and server programs. Operating system. This job also usually has a human touch element, as network architects may need to work with customers and sales and marketing staff to meet customer needs and ensure accounts are set up correctly.

Database Administrator :

This growing field involves protecting and securing data such as financial information and customer shipping records. Jobs are often found in specialized companies that provide services to other companies or data-intensive industries like insurance. According to the BLS, the median income for this job was $90,000 in 2018. Most employers expect applicants to have a bachelor’s degree in an information- or computer-related discipline. It is also helpful to understand database organization software, operating system tools, development environments and web platform software, and enterprise resource planning tools.

Computer Systems Analyst:

Also known as a systems architect, this job requires an understanding of computer and business systems. As with many information technology careers, the archetypal education for the position is a bachelor’s degree in computer science or information science, but some people come to this position after studying business or even humanities. Strong computer skills are required, including programming tools, database management software, and also, development environment software. At the same time, individuals performing this work must use computer systems to solve business problems such as workflow, inventory control, and production processes. As more companies migrate to cloud computing, work in this area will increase. Information Security Analyst:

According to the BLS, this is one of the fastest-growing IT jobs, with a projected increase of 32% by 2028. Professionals in these positions protect corporate networks and also, systems from cyberattacks. These jobs typically require a bachelor’s degree with a major in computer science and some experience in the computer field. In addition, professionals in this field need to use development environment tools, network monitoring operational software and specific security tools. According to the BLS, the median salary for this job was $98,000 in 2018.

It is clear from this list that IT positions are high-paying, fast-growing career paths. It is also clear that the first step is a bachelor’s degree for many of them. In higher education, computer science mainly focuses on programming and software development, while information technology studies computer systems and networks related to running a business. Both can be the basis for a great career in this field. Some students may also specialize in specific IT-related areas, such as cybersecurity, or continue their studies with a master’s degree in a related field.

Also Read: What Is Artificial Intelligence? – Work, Types, And More