Managers of Information Technology departments, also known as IT managers, are responsible for the overall performance of the electronic networks that allow a business to function. The exact scope of these responsibilities varies from one setting to another. In some companies, an IT manager focuses strictly on computer networks. At other times, this technology professional may also be involved in the creation or upgrade of telephone systems and other electronic support systems connected with the operation.
At the core of the IT manager job description is the care of the in-house network. This often means that the manager is involved in the selection of hardware and software used in the network. For example, an IT manager would likely be involved in any discussions about updating the internal servers and computer work stations. There is a good chance that the manager would also work with other personnel in the selection of software, such as accounting programs or some type of sales and customer database.
Along with helping to establish the overall structure of the network, an IT manager would also oversee the routine maintenance of the system. This would mean regular testing of the various components to ensure they are functioning at maximum efficiency. The manager would also establish and oversee processes that would seek to identify any potential glitches in any programming that could cause some sort of system failure. There is a good chance that the manager would also put in place an ongoing process that would monitor employee usage of company resources, such as the Internet, internal email, and other electronic tools.
It is often the responsibility of the IT manager to create training materials that help new employees understand how to make the best use of the technology currently utilized in the company. This can include everything from helping to design in-house training manuals to walking new employees through the process of accessing key programs, establishing login credentials, and other essentials. Depending on the structure of the company, the IT manager may be called upon to hold regular training sessions that help remind all employees of the most effective ways to make use of the electronic tools available.
In small companies, the IT manager may constitute the entire Information Technology department. When this is the case, there is a good chance he or she will personally handle many of the functions that are dispersed over an IT team at larger businesses. Still, most managers are fully trained and capable of handling any IT task, from evaluating new hardware to assisting to running cables for the creation of new work areas.
