Information TechnologyIndividuals who have developed and maintained an interest in fields such as computer science and/or information systems  might wonder what exactly is Information Technology? By reading the data below, you can learn more about this exciting, perpetually evolving field.

Information Technology – A Brief Overview

Although broadly defined, Information Technology (IT) is a term that typically references the use of telecommunications and computer equipment for the purpose of storing, retrieving, transmitting, and manipulating information. Oftentimes, this work transpires in a business context. In many cases, the phrase “Information Technology” acts as a synonym for computers and/or computer networks. However, this field also incorporates other channels of information distribution like telephones and television. There are a plethora of industries that are associated with information technology, and some of them include:

  • Computer hardware
  • Software
  • Electronics
  • Semi-conductors
  • Internet
  • Telecom equipment
  • e-Commerce
  • Computer services

Information Technology – Contemporary Relevance

The field of Information Technology is of contemporary relevance as a result of the fact that it plays an integral role in the development and maintenance of software, computers, Intranets, networks, servers, websites, telecommunications, and databases. In this era, almost every modern business depends on information systems for things such as database management, e-commerce websites, and employee e-mail. In the world of hospital management, information technology is required for the maintenance of patient databases. Additionally, educational institutions such as college universities are responsible for the administration of their networks. And even locally based start-up companies require the use of information technology for things such as order-tracking systems. As a result of the seeming ubiquity of Information Technology, it may be unsurprising to note that 92% of IT professionals work for non-IT companies.

Information Technology-Careers

According to How Stuff Works, four of the ten most in-demand jobs right now in the United States are IT jobs. As you may have guessed from this statistic, IT jobs are in high demand. Salaries for individuals who opt to work within this sector are expected to be exceptional. For example, individuals who graduate with degrees in information science, electrical engineering, and computer science will obtain average starting salaries of $50,000. Here are two career options within the field of IT worth considering:

Computer Programmer

A computer programmer is an individual who creates software programs and writes code. These individuals turn program designs made by engineers and software developers into instructions computers follow to perform various functions. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, a computer programmer can expect to earn about $74,280 annually. Typically, programmers work within the office setting, and generally within the field of computer systems design.

Computer Systems Analyst

A computer systems analyst is an individual who studies a business organization’s computer procedures and systems in order to help it operate as effectively and expediently as possible. In designing information systems solutions for businesses, computer systems analysts meld the worlds of information technology and business. Typically, the computer systems analyst can expect to earn about $79,680 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Related Resource: Management Information Systems (MIS)

Conclusion

If you have any interest in the Information Technology field, you should note that there are a plethora of career options available to you. Additionally, the field is constantly undergoing growth and change in response to technological advancements, meaning that it can be a very exciting and intellectually stimulating sector to work within. Now that you know what Information Technology is, you can determine whether pursuing this field vocationally would be ideal for you.