Regardless of the kind or size of the business set-up, it can benefit much from outsourcing. Outsourcing is basically the obtaining the services of an outside agency to perform tasks that is normally done by an individual businessmen or by the regular office work force of a company.
A great advantage of outsourcing is that it frees up lots of time for businessmen or for a company to concentrate on other areas or jobs that also require attention and spend several hours to perform. Outsourcing of workers can do these tasks faster and maybe more effectively.
Many companies and businessmen have realized these that resulted to the proliferation of outsourcing agencies and individual who offer their services these days.
Mr. Outsource University is coming out with a series of tasks that skilled or semi-skilled jobseekers may apply for as a freelance virtual assistant or as a worker in outsource companies.
Here is the 5th job in the series of tasks Mr. Outsource University is recommending:
Information Technology Specialists
The term information technology or IT refers to an entire industry and it generally means the use of computers and software to manage information. Sometimes, it is also known as Management Information Services (or MIS) or as Information Services (or IS). The main responsibilities of the information technology department in a company are to store, protect, process, transmit the information, and later retrieving these information as necessary.
Just a short look back on the origin of Information Technology (IT) industry:
Back in 1960s and 1970s, the term “information technology “ was used only to those working in banks and hospitals to describe their process of storing information. With the advent of computers, the process shifted to computing technology and “paperless” workplaces. Since then, the term “information technology (IT)” is referred to the industry that utilizes computers, networking, software programming, and other equipment and processes to store, process, retrieve, transmit, and protect information. Those working in the information technology business are called IT specialists.
The Basic Functions of Information Technology (IT) Specialists
Information Technology (IT) Specialists are tasked to perform the following duties in a company:
1. help build and support websites
2. run computer networks
3. provide users access to company databases and systems
4. upgrade computer software
5. troubleshoot computer system outages
6. order of new software and hardware parts
7. monitor network performance
8. maintain desktop and laptop computers for employees and resolve technical issues related to office equipment, such as printers and copy machines
9. back up and store company information
10. consult with technology vendors
11. update themselves with the latest software
Requirements for IT Specialists
Education
To become an IT specialist, it is important to have at least a bachelor’s degree from a college or university. Complete a 4-year undergraduate degree like English, statistics, and computer- related classes are included in the degree.
Although IT specialists with a bachelor’s degree, associate degree or professional certification in areas such as computer science, management information systems and information science are highly preferred, students can prepare for an IT specialist career by taking courses in statistics, mathematics, computer science, computer programming, engineering and communications.
Obtain a computer support job. Most IT specialists start out as computer support staff before moving on to perform advanced information technology positions.
Skills Individuals interested in becoming IT specialists need some particular skills to make it in the field of information technology, such as:
• IT Specialists should have strong analytical, computer, project management, and problem-solving skills.
• They should have proficient knowledge in personal computer (PC) technologies and platforms.
• Communication skills are essential to IT specialists. It is important that they can communicate effectively with staff who are, and are not, familiar with computers like webmasters, programmers, executives, as well as with nontechnical staff.
• They must have a high attention to details and keen problem-solving ability
• The ability to multi-task is also important. IT specialists should be able to work on more than one computer project at the same time, alone or as parts of a team
For additional information, watch this video on the 5 Important Career Skills for IT Jobs:
Career Path of IT Specialists
The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that job opportunities for computer network, database administrator and systems professionals will be very good through the year 2018 when job growth within the information technology field is expected to reach 30 percent. This due to growing investment in new technologies and the rising concerns over information security. Candidates with a college education and professional certification can enjoy the best job prospects for IT positions during this time.
Watch this video for more information on IT (Information Technology) Career Path Guideline:
Some Related Professions Open to IT Specialists
1. Computer Support Specialists
Computer support specialists assist others in servicing, updating, and using computers. They are on call at workplaces and call centers to help computer users resolve software or hardware problem. They may also do installing, modifying, and repairing computer software or hardware. Computer support specialists that have formal college degrees and advanced technical skills are preferred by most employers. Knowledge of software programs, networking, and common computer issues are required. Some employers who work for technology companies require their support specialists to have special certifications to work on their company’s products. However, this certification on the job can usually be earned simultaneously while working, with the help of their employer.
2. Computer Programmer
Computer programmers are hired in the design and development of software programs and supporting technologies. They work for software or internet companies, although some develop proprietary software for companies outside the tech sector. A bachelor’s degree in computer science or mathematics is required so is on-the-job training to keep up with latest developments by employers of software programmers in specific fields like the sciences and engineering.
3. Network Administrators
Network administrators are IT specialists working in the operation and upkeep of databases, servers, or networks. They are responsible for setting up and servicing a computer network or database, and for protecting the network’s security. Computer network administrators should have a bachelor’s degree in computer science or information systems. Computer network administrators may be able to find employment with a combination of a two-year associate’s degree in computer science and technical experience. It is important that they are familiar with common networking devices and their component software.
The exact bachelor’s degree depends on the particular position people want to enter. For instance, acceptable majors for a network or system administrator include information science or management information systems
4. Computer Systems
Analysts Computer systems analysts help to computerize businesses and institutions, usually on contract basis, when a company wants to develop and set up a computer system. They also create customized programs for their employers. Those with advanced technical skills in networking, computer systems, or software programming can work as systems analysts. However, although those with bachelor’s degrees in computer science or information systems are often preferred. Computer systems analysts in business sometimes earn postsecondary business degrees as well.
For related topics on Information Technology Profession, watch these videos:
Information Technology Careers