Computer and information systems managers skills needed

Between cloud-based applications, database programs, private networks, and software programs, companies have many options when choosing the technology solutions that are right for them. Information systems managers help assist companies in these decisions, providing insight into possible hardware and software options.

As an information systems manager, you will help inform all of a company’s technology-related decisions. After identifying necessary devices and programs, you will help with their installation, optimization, and continued use. Ultimately, it is the job of an information systems manager to keep a company’s networks, applications, programs, and devices secure.

If you have a passion for business consulting and you’re looking to put your deep knowledge of modern technology to use, then the role of an information systems manager is right for you.

Computer and information systems managers skills needed

One of several rewarding careers available to information technology (IT) students, the role of an information systems manager requires both strong communication and technical skills. These managers serve as technology advocates for companies or clients, helping them to equip all employees with optimal technology solutions.

Information systems managers typically need to obtain both an undergraduate and a master’s degree. Before employment, you might also need to gain a few years of experience in a relevant technology field.

Information systems managers fulfill a wide variety of responsibilities. On some days, you might spend time communicating with company executives while you familiarize them with several hardware or software options. On other days, you may collaborate with a company’s technology team to implement specific IT strategies.

The exact responsibilities of an information systems manager include:

  • Identifying hardware and software options that benefit company operations.
  • Consulting with company representatives or executives to discuss how specific technology solutions can be implemented.
  • Helping IT teams integrate devices and programs across company networks.
  • Implementing devices and programs that offer employees the tools they need to succeed.
  • Researching any new or developing technologies that could potentially improve a company’s output.
  • Upgrading a company’s existing networks and programs to continually accommodate changing security protocols.
  • Training company employees in the use of any newly implemented technologies.

These and other responsibilities keep information systems managers busy each day as they work to connect companies with the technological tools they need.

Before you can begin a career as an information systems manager, you’ll need to satisfy a few academic requirements. First, it helps a great deal to earn a bachelor’s degree in IT management, or a closely related field. This program will improve your skills in data management, network security, and critical thinking, all immediately applicable when you begin a professional IT career.

Many information systems managers continue their education by obtaining a master’s degree in information technology management. This program helps to complete your technology skill set, further improving your abilities in IT management, data analysis, and accounting. You’ll also gain valuable leadership skills to help you guide company executives toward informed technology decisions. Additionally, an MBA in IT management could be a good fit if you already have an extensive IT background.

IT Management – B.S. Business Administration

IT managers are needed in nearly every organization:...

IT managers are needed in nearly every...

IT managers are needed in nearly every organization:

  • Time: 66% of graduates finish within 36 months.
  • Tuition: $3,575 per 6-month term.

Some careers and jobs this business degree will prepare you for:

  • Vice president of risk management
  • Product security incident manager
  • Vice president of technical services
  • CTO and CIO
  • Director of IT

Key competencies of these online courses align with industry needs: management and leadership, networks and security, and information systems management.

Computer and information systems managers skills needed

College of Business

Information Technology Management – M.S.

A degree for experienced IT professionals ready to lead:...

A degree for experienced IT professionals ready...

A degree for experienced IT professionals ready to lead:

  • Time: 89% of graduates finish within 24 months.
  • Tuition and fees: $3,940 per 6-month term.

Included in your program—at no extra cost—is the opportunity to earn the valuable PMI Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) certification.

Maximize the opportunities that your IT career path has afforded you—earn your master's and keep moving up. 

Computer and information systems managers skills needed

College of I.T.

MBA Information Technology Management

Earn the online college degree that can move your career into IT...

Earn the online college degree that can move your...

Earn the online college degree that can move your career into IT upper management:

  • Time: 68% of graduates finish within 24 months.
  • Tuition: $4,530 per 6-month term.

Sample careers and jobs this business degree will prepare you for:

  • Chief technology officer
  • Director of IT services
  • Senior systems administrator
  • Management information systems director
  • Computer and information systems manager

Learn to navigate emergencies, execute strategies, and optimize systems with the competencies within this specialty MBA.

Compare with M.S. IT Management

Computer and information systems managers skills needed

College of Business

Accelerated Information Technology Bachelor's and Master's Degree

Earn both your bachelor’s in IT and master’s in IT management at...

Earn both your bachelor’s in IT and master’s in...

Earn both your bachelor’s in IT and master’s in IT management at a faster pace with fewer courses

  • Time: Approximately 5 years.
  • Tuition and fees: $3,625 per 6-month term for the bachelor's degree; $3,940 per term for the master's portion..
  • Certifications: Includes AWS, ITIL, LPI and CompTIA.

The LPI Linux Essentials and ITIL® Foundation Certification are central to this program. Included CompTIA certifications are A+, Network+, Security+, and Project+.

Computer and information systems managers skills needed

College of I.T.

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Start the 1st of any month—as soon as you complete enrollment!

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No need to wait for spring or fall semester. It's back-to-school time at WGU year-round. Get started by talking to an Enrollment Counselor today, and you'll be on your way to realizing your dream of a bachelor's or master's degree—sooner than you might think!

 

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Computer and information systems managers skills needed

Information systems managers depend on a variety of skills each day. Whether you’re communicating with company leaders or personally integrating software programs, you’ll depend on a deep technology-related skill set.

The skills you’ll need as an information systems manager include:

  • Technological proficiency. The ability to use all required hardware and software systems that a company depends on.
  • Network management. The ability to manage all aspects of a company’s networks, allocating proper user permissions to connect all employees with the resources they need.
  • Research. The ability to identify and selectively integrate new technology-based tools that can further improve a company’s output.
  • Interpersonal communication. The ability to correspond effectively with team members, company executives, and technology representatives.
  • Instruction. The ability to teach employees how to effectively use a company’s hardware and software.
  • Public speaking. The ability to confidently address employees and company executives regarding a company’s use of technology in the workplace.
  • Teamwork. The ability to collaborate well in a shared work environment to integrate programs according to company needs.

These and other skills help information systems managers in their efforts to guide companies toward success by integrating technology applications that make operations easier.

How Much Does an Information Systems Manager Make?

$84,873

The exact income of an information systems manager can vary based on many different factors. These include your employer, employer’s location, your years of experience, and education. On average, the annual salary of an information systems manager is over $84,000, with a range of roughly $52,000 to $127,000.

What Is the Projected Job Growth?

11%

Where Do Information Systems Managers Work?

Varies

Information systems managers can work for a variety of employers, depending on the nature of their employment. While some information systems managers are contracted to work with individual clients, others are employed internally at private companies to advise their technology decisions.

Information systems managers typically work for:

-Private businesses

-Information technology providers

-Technology research firms

-Nonprofit organizations

-Healthcare organizations

-Educational institutions

-Financial institutions

Interested in Becoming an Information Systems Manager?

Learn more about degree programs that can prepare you for this lucrative career.

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What skills are needed for computer information systems?

Key Skills for a Career in Computer Information Systems.
Analytical Thinking..
Communication Skills..
Creativity..
Detail-Oriented..
Problem-Solving Abiltiies..
Programming Language Knowledge..

What skills are needed for IT manager?

Here are the skills you'll need to be a successful tech manager:.
Strategic thinking. ... .
Strong communication skills. ... .
Ability to work well under pressure. ... .
Attention to detail. ... .
Project management skills. ... .
A desire to keep learning. ... .
Management and leadership skills..

How do you become a computer and information systems manager?

Computer and information systems managers typically need a bachelor's degree in computer and information technology or a related field, such as engineering technologies. These degrees include courses in computer programming, software development, and mathematics.

What are the main duties of information system managers?

An information systems manager knows everything about hardware and software. They oversee the use of technology in a business or organization and their primary role is to design, manage, and monitor information systems by overseeing a team of specialists who install and maintain hardware and software upgrades.