Management Information SystemsIf you have a passion for computer information systems and a love for business, you may, at some point, find yourself wondering what Management Information Systems is. The field of Management Information Systems (MIS) is an adaptation of standard computer information system, focusing on how information technology can facilitate more productive departments and staff members at an organization. MIS managers function much like IT directors. At like IT directors, MIS managers must start their training with a firm foundation in computer science or information technology in order to see their dreams realized.

MIS Manager Education Requirements

MIS managers are required to have a Bachelor’s degree in information technology , computer science or a related field. Depending on the size of an organization, an MIS manager may be required to have a graduate degree, usually a Master’s degree, in a field related to information technology or computer science, according to the US Department of Labor’s Occupational Outlook Handbook. There is no on the job training required to become an MIS manager, though students may be required to complete an internship while in college.

Duties of MIS Managers

MIS managers are essentially IT directors that focus more on management solutions. MIS managers evaluates an organization’s computer systems and makes determinations on how well the systems create cohesiveness between departments. They make recommendations for new hardware and software when they see a need and the oversee the implementation of new system components when mandated by the organization’s executives, according to Monster.

MIS managers maintain their own staffs, overseeing the acquisitions and terminations alike. They develop contingency plans for disasters and combat security threats to their organization’s data. They work with in budgets established by their organization’s executives and make recommendations to ensure the computer systems have the funding required to maximize the organization’s productivity.

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Advancement Opportunities for MIS Managers

MIS managers can advance in mid and large-sized organizations to become Chief Technology Officers, overseeing all of the organization’s technology managers. In smaller organizations, they may already serve as Chief Technology Officers. MIS managers aren’t capped in upward progression and can even go on to become one of their organization’s executives, according to the Occupational Outlook Handbook. To have any hope of upward mobility, an MIS manager must stay on top of advancements in the field of technology as well as developments within their organization’s sector.

Continuing Education for MIS Managers

Technology never stops moving. It’s always evolving. MIS managers must keep up with advancements in technology in order to maintain success in their careers. Workshops and seminars help MIS managers maintain updated portfolios of certifications. Hardware and software vendors will occasionally offer certification courses to help IT professional stay current with new components rolled out by the vendors.

Conclusion

MIS managers are business-minded IT professionals that can function as IT directors or spearhead an organization’s human resources division with the latest technology. If keeping up with technology advancements and management suits you, then a career in Management Information Systems might be right for you.