What Does an Information Technologist Do? Role and Skills

Updated 13 October 2023

Information technology (IT) is a broad career field that focuses on the storage, interchange and security of information and data. An information technologist is one type of IT professional who specialises in managing IT systems. Learning about this career could help you decide if it's right for you. In this article, we answer the question, "what does an information technologist do?" and discuss the skills, qualifications and steps involved in this role.Related: 21 Best Technology Jobs To Choose With Salaries and Duties
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What does an information technologist do?

An information technologist is a qualified professional in charge of designing, implementing, managing and supporting a variety of IT system components. As an information technologist, you might focus and specialise in software, computer hardware, databases, security systems or communication networks. In the role, you ensure that organisations have efficient and up-to-date technology to facilitate the seamless flow of information and data. Information technologists also create and share security standards to secure the networks they manage.In this role, you may operate individually or as part of a team, reporting to a senior IT executive or manager. The exact role of information technologists varies greatly depending on the job and organisation. Listed below are some common duties outlining what an information technologist does:
  • Assisting in the installation, testing and maintenance of various computer systems, software, hardware, communication networks and other devices
  • Troubleshooting and debugging system faults
  • Offering technical assistance and support to users
  • Generating accounts and offering technical training for other employees
  • Creating databases for data storage
  • Conducting frequent database audits
  • Creating dependable data retrieval techniques and backing up data on servers
  • Monitoring and supervising data migrations
  • Planning and organising network security settings, user rights and authorisation and system firewalls
  • Shaping and deciding on infrastructure development with external vendors and contractors
  • Coming up with new strategies, methods and procedures to improve technical efficiency levels
Related: 6 Different Types of Technologists: Definition and Salary

What is information technology?

Information technology, often referred to as IT, involves using computers and telecommunications to study, create and implement information management systems. Computer hardware and software applications are both essential components of these operations. IT necessitates the creation, administration and support of communication networks and databases. Professionals in this field help ensure that both individuals and organisations can safely acquire, process and share data. An IT department typically consists of three components, each of which performs a particular role inside a company. Outlined below are the components making up an IT department, along with their respective functions:

Governance

IT specialists are in charge of establishing and configuring computer networks in businesses. IT employees are responsible for system security and troubleshooting if a problem develops. This section of an IT department may design and enforce rules and practices that ensure effective IT systems that are run in accordance with the demands of a company.

Operations

The IT department is in charge of maintaining the firm's computers and providing staff assistance. IT operations involve the procedures and services managed by an IT department inside a larger organisation or business. The tasks of the operations team may include installing new software, diagnosing issues and teaching staff how to use a software product properly.

Hardware and computer infrastructure

Hardware refers to the physically touchable elements of a computer, whereas infrastructure refers to the actual hardware required to link computers to other computers and people. As such, this IT department handles the physical components of IT. Employees in this section are in charge of configuring and maintaining the company's IT equipment, such as phone systems, personal computers, laptops, routers and servers.Related: COBIT 2019 (With Principles, Components, Users and Benefits)

What are the skills necessary to be an IT technologist?

As an IT technologist, it's essential that you possess and hone a variety of technical abilities and a combination of hard and soft skills to be successful in your career. The following are the most significant talents expected from an IT technologist:
  • Communication skills: As an IT technologist, it's critical that you're able to communicate effectively with your bosses, colleagues and clients. As part of your daily routine, you can expect to collaborate with them to address technical issues and improve user experience using software or hardware.
  • Organisation skills: Many IT jobs need you to work on many projects at the same time, so it's important that you're organised to keep on track. Learning how to prioritise your work is also an important skill in this industry.
  • Analytical skills: Analytical skills enable you to detect, diagnose and resolve technical difficulties. These skills also enable you to see issues before they become a problem.
  • Creative thinking: The ability to work with technology in an imaginative and creative manner is a crucial qualification in today's IT employment. Any company values your ability to be innovative in your approach to challenges and solutions.
  • Database governance: In your role as an IT technologist, it's critical that you're able to traverse database software and utilise built-in forms in a database.
  • Project management: There are several initiatives and responsibilities in IT that have deadlines. Good project management abilities may assist you in completing tasks efficiently and meeting tight deadlines.
  • Software development: This is a necessary talent for people in the IT field since a company may require new software to be produced by IT experts who work with programming.
  • Network management: It's essential that an IT technologist can handle a company's computer network efficiently.
  • Coding: Those working in IT are familiar with programming languages to code for database administration, websites, software development and other technical systems.
  • Information security: Keeping information secure and confidential is a major component of IT for commercial enterprises. To be successful in your role, an IT technologist may possess a working grasp of this technical competence.
  • Hardware management: As an IT technologist constantly working with gear and infrastructure, it's critical that you understand how to configure and manage computer hardware to provide the best user experience possible.
  • Operating systems: Every business usually employs many operating systems for its devices and an IT professional. It's critical that you understand how operating systems function.
Related: Information Technologist Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become an information technologist

Discussed below are the steps you can take to become an information technologist:

1. Pursue your education

To start your career in the IT field, you can obtain a bachelor's degree in computer science, computer systems or information technology. A bachelor's degree usually lasts from three to four years. You can also consider pursuing a master's degree in business administration, computer science or a closely related field. Obtaining a master's degree can significantly enhance your attractiveness to prospective employers and increase your earning potential.Related: What Is an IT Consultant?

2. Get certified

An IT certification may be optional for an IT technologist, but it can help you show your skills to prospective employers. You can get certified in subjects such as Object-Oriented Programming, C++, C or Python. These certifications may take a few days or a few weeks to earn. You may need some basic understanding of computer principles to be eligible for a certification programme.Related: What IT Certifications Should I Get?

3. Cultivate and sharpen critical soft skills

In your role as an information technologist, you usually have regular engagement with a variety of people. As a result, excellent communication, interpersonal, negotiating and relationship-building abilities are essential. Innovative thinking, critical thinking and problem-solving abilities can also assist you in comprehending why difficulties develop and resolve them.Related: What Are the 25 In-Demand Skills To Elevate Your Career?

4. Gather work experience

Because many businesses favour experienced applicants, think about working part-time or freelancing while pursuing your studies. You can look for jobs online to get a sense of the present state of the IT sector. Developing and initiating your own IT projects may also be advantageous since it demonstrates to prospective employers that you possess the necessary abilities and dedication to carry a project through to completion.

5. Draft a well-written resume and cover letter

A well-written resume and cover letter show your unique skills and assist you in standing out from the other applicants. Emphasise your talents and skills and tailor your resume and cover letter to the job specifications. Remember to check for errors and edit any grammatical, spelling and syntax mistakes. Read the entire resume and cover letter aloud to ensure that it's accurate and professional.

6. Apply to IT roles

Professional networking sites, online job boards, IT business websites and social media are all excellent places to look for IT employment. You may also notify your IT contacts that you're searching for work and request recommendations. Before submitting a job application, thoroughly study the job criteria and ensure that you're a suitable fit for the skill sets required by the company. You may also utilise your job search to determine what talents are in demand in the market and which ones you can gain from.Related: Common IT Interview Questions: Example Answers and TipsPlease note that none of the companies mentioned in this article are affiliated with Indeed.
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