What is the IT Industry?

When someone says "I work in It?" what exactly are they referencing? IT Stands for Information technology, it is the name given to group certain products, industries, and professions all relating to computer technology. Not all computer jobs are in the IT industry but more than not they are.

Equipment manufacturers- These manufacturers are responsible for the design and build of computer hardware and communication products. Included in the products produced by computer manufacturers are computers, monitors, printers, and storage devices.

Software publishers- Software publishers are responsible for the creation of computer software, products created by software publishers include applications, programming languages, and operating Systems.

Chipmakers- Chipmakers design and build computer chips and circuit boards. Included in the products produced by chipmakers are system boards, microprocessors, and RAM.

Service companies- These companies provide services relating to computers. Some of the services that are provided by such companies are business consulting, web site design, web hosting, internet connections, repairs, and product support.

Computer retailers- computer retailers are also considered an IT Industry. These companies sell and resell computer products through websites, retail stores, and direct sales representatives.

These companies manufacture handheld and personal computers, main frames, super computers, software, and peripheral devices.

The IT department’s main focus is considered to be on computers, data, software, support services, informational needs, and the creating, maintaining and updating of informational systems. There are three branches when it comes to the career choices provided by IT. Much of the time, the head of the branch holds the title of Chief Information Officer or CIO. Operating underneath the direct orders of the CIO is the next branch which includes management and usually consists of a programming service manager and a computer operations supervisor. The last of the branches or those working under the management department include System Analysts, computer programmers, technical support specialists and web designers that work under the programming services manager. This branch also includes database administrators, security specialists, computer operators and network administrators who all work under the orders of the computer operations supervisor.

When it comes to a job in the IT Industry, the options are vast. There are a wide variety of intriguing and well-paying careers to choose from and IT is one of the very few industries to offer such a broad range of opportunities. Some of these opportunities include:

Computer programmer- A computer programmer is responsible for designing, writing and debugging codes to produce computer programs.

Network administrator- The network administrator is responsible for the planning, installing and upkeep of Local area networks or LAN. They are also responsible for providing access rights and accounts to approved users and often times are responsible for maintaining the security of the network. They also troubleshoot connectivity issues and can respond to user requests for new software.

Security specialist- A security specialist is responsible for checking the vulnerability of a computer system against viruses, worms, unauthorized access and the actual physical damage of these systems. They install and maintain firewalls and antivirus software and remain up to date with technical solutions for security issues.

Systems analyst- Systems analysts build new and updated computer services by taking in the consideration of the requirements from the business or organization, its employees and the feedback from their customers.

Database administrator- A database administrator determines the best way to collect and store data. They also create and maintain databases, data entry forms, reports, and they define backup procedures along with security of data and database usage.

Computer operator- Computer operators are responsible for monitoring computer performance, installing patches and upgrades, preforming backups and restoring data. Computer operators work with network servers, mainframes, and super computers.

Web designer- A website designer creates, publishes, edits, and tests web pages, usually, through the use of scripting languages such as html, xml and JavaScript.

Technical support specialist- Technical support specialists are responsible for the troubleshooting of hardware and software problems and the position is, often times, a job that can be completed from home or over the phone.

The educational courses needed to pursue a job in IT will be dependent upon each individual profession. Some of the courses that may be required include:

Computer engineering- computer engineering is geared toward computer hardware and peripheral device design.

Computer science- Courses of this degree focus on the programming and architecture of computers and many include calculus, physics, programming, and software development.

Information technology (IT)-These degrees focus on securing, upgrading, and the upkeep of computer equipment and software for business use. In IT programs you work with hardware, web pages, networks and security.

Information Systems (IS)- In these programs the focus is on applying computers to business problems and courses can include business, accounting, computer programming and systems analysis.

Software engineering- These programs focus on reliable, user-friendly and cost effective software.

Advanced degree- A master’s degree in computer engineering and computer sciences at a 4 year college can qualify you for a management position. Doctoral degrees are also available for software engineering, applications software engineering, and management information systems.

Along with the educational degrees needed to obtain a better job many certifications and courses are offered to further increase your knowledge and experience. There are many to choose from and cover every career path. You can, often times, obtain these certifications from technical schools and community colleges.

Now that you have a better understanding of the entirety of the IT industry, it is always wise to consider going into one of the many industries, with technology becoming ever more increasingly popular on a day to day basis this is a career that will continue to grow and one that humanity as a whole can benefit from. The IT industry is flourishing and many of the opportunities presented in this area of expertise are well-paying and diverse. It is something everyone should become more familiar with and take part in as there is something that can be found in it for everyone, no matter your skill level.