A computer manager, also known as an information technology (IT) manager, or computer and information systems manager, helps to oversee and bring together the efforts of the computers, programs, information systems servers, and the people working on those computers within an organization or company. The creation and implementation of the various computer information systems for a corporation or organization is one of the primary responsibilities of a computer manager. A number of technical skills are required in order to perform the many duties associated with this position. The success of a business may be highly dependent upon the management and skill of its computer manager.
Computer managers must supervise the maintenance of information systems servers, conduct research to find methods of reducing costs, and ensure the security of business information passing through the information system server. A computer manager also ensures that the overall operating costs of the information system remain within budget. Another critical role of a computer manager is to stay abreast of the latest technological trends and advances. Ongoing training in this area provide the computer manager with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand and fully utilize the technology, hardware, and software used in the workplace. Part of this job may also include planning, coordinating, and directing various activities related to data processing, information systems, and programming.
The technical skills required for this job are often learned through completion of a training program or formal education course work, which may result in various levels of technical certification, an associate's degree, or even a bachelor's degree in computer science or other computer technology related field, like information systems or management information systems. Some companies may not require a bachelor's degree if several years of experience have been accrued from previous work in the information technology sector. Computer managers who have specific certifications that show specialization in certain software or hardware programs may not be required to have earned a college degree. Those who have a master's degree in business administration (MBA) are more likely to advance into upper management positions.
A successful computer manager will likely have a number of practical skills, including the ability to work closely with people in a stressful situations. Computer managers may be called upon by any personnel in a company when there is a problem with the computer or the computer system. Well-developed interpersonal skills may also be a big part of this job as computer managers may be required to work with many different types of personnel on many different problems or issues throughout each day. The ability to delegate tasks to other personnel and to monitor their work also requires excellent management and communication skills.