Lightware Technologies

Welcome back to CHOOSING A CAREER PATH IN INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY series 3. continuation....

in our past series, we have talk about career path in the following fields:
HELP DESK TECHNICIAN
NETWORK ADMINISTRATOR
DATABASE ADMINISTRATOR
WEB DEVELOPER
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
IT SECURITY SPECIALIST
SOFTWARE ENGINEER . for more details on series those series.

Starting with this series on:
COMPUTER SYSTEMS ANALYST
They are also referred to as IT Systems Analyst, Business Systems Analyst, Computer Information Systems Analyst (CISA), System Analyst. They champion IT solutions to drive business goals.
Computer systems analysts are the “big picture” thinkers in IT. Armed with an understanding of both business and technology, these professionals analyze an organization's current computer systems & procedures, and recommend strategic changes to increase productivity, reduce costs and accomplish other organizational objectives.
Mission-critical activities include monitoring computer system performance, finding and procuring new technologies based on comprehensive cost-benefit analyses, designing and developing new computer systems, and working closely with end-users to optimize performance and troubleshoot problems post-implementation.
Computer Systems Analyst Skills & Responsibilities
Typical day-to-day duties and in-demand skill sets for computer systems analysts include:
• Systems analysts work closely with managers and end-users to define systems requirements and business goals.
• Systems analysts analyze the effectiveness of computer systems and develop strategies to improve IT productivity.
• Systems analysts assist in the design & development of new computer applications and enhancements to existing apps.
• Computer systems analysts provide orientation and training sessions to end-users for new and modified IT systems.
• Systems analysts assist in the deployment, customization and post-implementation troubleshooting of new applications.
• Systems analysts need a top-level understanding of how IT processes and computer system components - hardware, software & networks - interact to further business objectives.

IT PROJECT MANAGER
They are also referred to as IT Program Manager, IT Operations Manager, IT Process Manager, Project Manager. They oversee large-scale technology projects.
IT project managers ensure that complex technical projects, such as systems upgrades, are completed on time, under budget and to specifications. These professionals plan and coordinate the efforts of the internal project team, 3rd party contractors and consultants to bring IT projects to successful completion.
IT project management is one of the most in-demand skills for 2013, as an increasing number of companies are utilizing specialists and project-based methods to get work done right, the first time. Opportunity for advancement and earning potential in this field are excellent.
IT Project Manager Skills & Responsibilities
Typical day-to-day activities and in-demand skill sets for IT project managers include:
• IT project managers plan, execute and finalize technology projects on schedule, under budget and to scope.
• IT project managers develop and manage a work breakdown structure (WBS) for large-scale IT projects.
• IT PMs write project plans detailing a project's goals, technologies, systems, schedules, budget and personnel.
• IT project managers develop project plans that include cost-benefit or return on investment (ROI) analyses.
• IT PMs coordinate recruitment of project personnel and assign duties, responsibilities and spans of authority.
• IT project managers develop and manage budgets, and subsequent budget updates, for technology projects
• IT project managers monitor, analyze & summarize performance and trends to create project status reports.
COMPUTER PROGRAMMER
They are also referred to as Application Programmer, Systems Developer, Software Programmer, Programmer Analyst. They write the code that fuels computer operation.
Computer programmers translate project specifications from software and systems engineers into a script of logical instructions that computers can understand and interpret into functioning programs. Essentially, computer programmers make computer systems and applications work.
Successful computer programmers are fluent in a range of programming languages, as each language has a specific set of strengths, limitations and real-world applications, and multiple languages are used in tandem to create powerful multifaceted programs. For example, Facebook is coded using PHP, JavaScript, CSS & XHP for the frontend; C, C++, Python & Java for the backend; Erlang for Facebook chat; and Objective-C & Java for Facebook's iPhone & Android apps respectively.
Sought-after programming languages in today’s job market include Java, C #, C++, Objective-C, PHP, Python, Perl, Ruby and ASP.Net. HTML, CSS & JavaScript are the building blocks of the World Wide Web, so while not technically programming languages, these are indispensable and highly marketable skills for any programmer.
Skills and Responsibilities
Typical day-to-day activities and in-demand skill sets for this position include the following. Computer programmers:
• Write code using a variety of languages, e.g., C, C #, C++, PHP, Python, Perl and Java.
• Update, optimize the performance and expand the functionality of existing programs.
• Meticulously test for and correct code errors (a.k.a. “bugs”) in a process called debugging.
• Should insert detailed comments into their coding projects so coworkers can follow their process.
• Work closely with software developers, application architects and engineers to keep projects on scope.
• Employ database development skills, e.g., MySQL, SQL Server and Oracle, to build data-driven applications.

IT MANAGER
They are also referred to as Information Systems Manager, IT Administrator, IT Director. They plan, direct, support and champion IT initiatives.
IT managers ensure that their team or department operates efficiently, effectively and inline with organizational goals. These professionals work closely with senior executives and department heads to identify, develop and support new technology solutions. IT managers are also responsible for creating and ensuring adherence to organizational IT policy, procedures and best practices.
Rapid growth in a range of IT job markets, including networking, cloud computing, software development, data storage and virtualization, plus the proliferation of mobile and wireless technologies, is driving demand for IT workers across the board, which in turn is fueling job growth for the managers who lead and supervise IT personnel.
IT Manager Skills & Responsibilities
Typical day-to-day activities and in-demand skill sets for technology managers include the following. IT managers:
• Are responsible for strategic IT planning, including fostering innovation & allocating monetary resources.
• Direct operational IT planning, including planning IT projects and the allocation of manpower resources.
• Coordinate IT staffing, including hiring, supervision, scheduling, professional development and discipline.
• Collaborate with and maintain communications with executives and department heads in the organization.
• Design, implement and enforce the policies, procedures and best practices for their IT team or department.
• Should have superior skills in team leadership, employee development and interpersonal communication.
• Should have a strong command of project management principles, procedures and best practices.

Still promise to be informative. for more info or advice call LightWare Technologies on: 07066598101

CHOOSING A CAREER PATH IN INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY series2. continuation....

We stated in series 1 that: Information Technology (IT) is a critical productivity enabler in our world today. It has continues to change the way we live, play, and do business....... see series1

GRAPHIC DESIGNER
They are also referred to as Graphic Artist, Digital Media Designer, Web Designer, Interactive Media Designer. They fuse creativity and technology to create visually engaging graphics that communicate a message.
If you’re creative, have a good eye for color and composition, and love technology, then the graphic designer career path is for you. Graphic designers’ duties vary widely and include designing web pages, laying out catalogs and newsletters, designing logos, marketing collateral and any other web, print and interactive materials your company or clients require.
The demand for well-designed graphics - and skilled graphic designers - is at an all-time high. From web design and multimedia advertising campaigns, to print publishing and package design, clients expect modern branding initiatives to increase sales and elevate their status. Self-employment opportunities are abundant for talented designers with entrepreneurial spirit. Contributing to graphic designer job growth is the omnipresent need for innovative web and multimedia designs, now that almost every business has a website and social media presence requiring eye-catching graphics.
While graphic design can be a fun job, a graphic designer career should not be taken lightly. To be a successful designer it’s important to carefully construct your learning plan, continually advance your skills to keep pace with the latest digital design technologies, and build on your portfolio of work.
Graphic Designer Skills & Responsibilities
Typical daily activities and in-demand skill sets for graphic designers include the following:
• Design websites, email and newsletter templates, and social media pages.
• Plan layouts for magazines, brochures and other print publications.
• Design corporate logos, business cards and company letterhead.
• Make promotional displays, teasers and signs for public exhibitions.
• Create banner ads and rich media marketing campaigns for web pages.
• Work closely with Copywriters, Creative Directors, and Marketing Managers.
• Are proficient in the digital media and design products in Adobe's Creative Suite,
e.g., Photoshop, Dreamweaver, Flash, InDesign, Illustrator, Encore and Acrobat.

IT SECURITY SPECIALIST
They are also referred to as IT Security Analyst, Information Security Professional, Cyber Security Specialist, Computer Security Specialist. They Defend an Organization’s Information Systems.
In today's era of rapidly escalating threats and sophisticated cyber warfare, organizations need to be vigilant in combating attackers and protecting information assets. IT security specialists leverage an in-depth understanding of cyber security threats, technologies, and countermeasures to design and implement secure computer systems.
IT security specialists install, configure and upgrade security software to prevent cyber-attacks, educate [technical and non-technical] employees on computer security, monitor networks for security breaches, and inevitably respond to successful attacks with the appropriate countermeasures.
Workforce demand for computer security specialists is high across all organizational structures and verticals, including corporations, schools, medical practices, as well as public enterprises and government agencies.

IT Security Specialist Skills & Responsibilities
Day-to-day duties and skill sets include the following:
• Develop plans to safeguard computer files against unauthorized modification, destruction or disclosure.
• Choose, implement, monitor and upgrade computer anti-virus and malware protection systems.
• Encrypt data transmissions and erect firewalls to conceal confidential information during transmit.
• Implement password authentication to keep unauthorized users from accessing sensitive data files.
• Educate workers about computer security and promote security awareness and security protocols.
• Keep accurate and current backup files of all important data on the shared corporate network.

SOFTWARE ENGINEER
They are also referred to as Software Designer, Applications Software Engineer, Systems Software Engineer, Computer Software Developer. They develop computer systems and applications.
Software engineers design, develop, test and optimize the computer programs we use every day, e.g., business apps, operating systems, video games, network control systems and social networks. Software engineers can be divided into two classifications: Applications Software Engineers & Systems Software Engineers.
Applications software engineers analyze an end-user's computing needs and develop a custom program to meet those needs. Modern languages used by applications software engineers include Java, C, C++, PHP, Objective-C, Perl and Python. Mobile app developers are specialized applications software engineers who develop apps for smartphones and tablets.
Systems software engineers coordinate the creation, maintenance and expansion of an organization's internal computer systems. They organize the computing needs of each department, e.g., sales, inventory, billing & payroll, and control the technical direction of the computer system's development. Systems software engineers may also be responsible for developing an organization's intranet and ensuring system security.
Skills & Responsibilities
Day-to-day activities and in-demand skill sets for software engineers may include the following:
• Software engineers analyze end-users' needs and develop software solutions within time and cost constraints.
• Software engineers are fluent in object-oriented programming languages such as Java, C, C++, Perl & Python.
• Software engineers program, test, debug, monitor and document changes to computer systems & applications.
• Specialized software engineers, known as mobile app developers, create applications for smartphones & tablets.
• Applications software engineers upgrade existing computer programs to updated platforms with new specifications.
• Software engineers recommend changes and enhancements to existing software systems and computer applications.
• Software engineers are responsible for system security and data assurance across the systems that they're developing.

Watch out for series 3 on choosing a career path in IT. Still promise to be informative. for more info or advice call 07066598101

CHOOSING A CAREER PATH IN INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY series1

Information Technology (IT) is a critical productivity enabler in our world today. It has continues to change the way we live, play, and do business. It has had significant impact and been a key productivity driver in virtually every sector including Education, Health, Engineering, Construction, Accounting, Agriculture and Governance and has turned the world into a global village.
Despite all this, IT is still in its very infancy in our country (Nigeria) and has much to contribute to National growth and development. For established IT Professionals or those beginning an IT career path, this continues to be good news.
However, despite rapid growth and increased opportunity, simply showing up will not guarantee success. This is why it’s important to clearly identify your career objectives and develop a learning plan with the necessary skills, computer training and IT certifications to build a competitive edge and achieve your goals.
IT creates opportunity but it’s always about interest and passion, understanding the current IT career landscape is your first step; below are some of the most in-demand IT career paths based on earning power, growth potential, job outlook and excitement.

HELP DESK TECHNICIAN
They are also referred to as Desktop Support Technician, Systems Administrator, IT Support Specialist, Enterprise Support Technician, Desktop Support Analyst. They provide technical support for PC end-users.
Help desk technicians are vital to the IT workforce, as they keep the technologies that organizations rely on to do business current, and running smoothly.
They provide technical support and troubleshooting services to end-users who need assistance with their computer hardware or software. Help desk technicians need a deep understanding of computer hardware and software. Strong communication skills are also essential, as help desk specialists must be able to effectively communicate solutions to both technical and non-technical end-users. Patience, resourcefulness and a desire to help others are desirable virtues in technical support and help desk roles. Many IT pros begin their career as help desk technicians because of the low experience and education requirements, then as they're exposed to new IT disciplines and technologies they discover their niche and branch out into other IT careers, such as network administrator, DBA or IT security specialist.
Help Desk Skills & Responsibilities
Day-to-day duties and in-demand skill sets for IT help desk technicians include:
• Help desk technicians diagnose PC errors and provide technical support.
• Help desk technicians troubleshoot software, hardware and network issues.
• Help desk technicians train end-users how to setup and use new technologies.
• Help desk technicians backup and restore an organization's data files and folders.
• Help desk techs install, configure and upgrade PC software and operating systems.
• Remote help desk technicians may use specialized help desk support software to take remote control of end-users' computers to troubleshoot, diagnose and resolve complex issues.

NETWORK ADMINISTRATOR
They are also referred to as Systems Administrator, Network Analyst, Network Manager, Network Engineer. They manage networks & communications systems.
Network administrators install, support and manage the networks and computer systems that keep information flowing. They implement and maintain network hardware and software, troubleshoot network problems, and ensure network security, availability & performance standards.
In challenging economic times, organizations retain and hire new network administrators to optimize existing systems to reduce costs and increase productivity. In a strong economy, companies implement new networking and communications technologies to spur a competitive advantage, leading to increased demand for trained and certified network administrators to install, secure and optimize the new systems. This consistent demand for network administrators, independent of economic conditions, has led some leading employment experts to dub network administrator a "recession proof career."
Network Administrator Skills & Responsibilities
Typical daily activities and marketable skill sets for network administrators includes:
• Configure and maintain the organization's internal computer network.
• Manage network security tools, e.g., firewall, anti-virus and intrusion detection systems.
• Identify, troubleshoot, solve and document network connectivity and performance issues.
• Monitor network performance and optimize the network for optimal speed and availability.
• Install, configure and maintain network hardware, for example, Cisco routers and switches.
• Implement and maintain emergency backup and restore systems for mission-critical network servers.
• Network administrators regulate user access to sensitive files to protect against internal security breaches.

DATABASE ADMINISTRATOR
They are also referred to as Database Analyst, Database Manager, Oracle DBA, SQL Database Administrator. They organize and manage a company's data.
Database administrators ensure that business data is accurate, available and secure. The corporate database is the heart of key business systems that drive payroll, manufacturing, sales and more, so database administrators are recognized - and rewarded - for playing a crucial role in an organization's success.
Database administrators can continue to learn and advance their career by getting certified in one or more database management systems (DBMS); in-demand DBMS include Oracle, Microsoft SQL Server, IBM DB2 & MySQL.
Skills and Responsibilities
Typical day-to-day duties and in-demand skill sets for DBAs includes:
• Implement, support and manage the corporate database.
• Are responsible for data integrity and availability.
• Design data distribution and data archiving solutions.
• Ensure database security, including backups & disaster recovery.
• Some database administrators design and develop the corporate database.
• Some DBAs analyze and report on corporate data to help shape business decisions.
• Database administrators are proficient in one or more of the leading database
management systems, such as, Microsoft SQL Server, IBM DB2, MySQL and Oracle.

WEB DEVELOPER
They are also referred to as Webmaster, Web Administrator, Web Application Developer, Web Manager, Web Designer. They create web pages and web-based applications.
Web developers build the web pages and web-based applications that comprise the Internet. A basic web development work-flow includes collecting or creating web content (copy, images, videos, etc.), planning web site layout and navigation, coding the actual web pages, then testing and optimizing the website for superior user experience and optimum performance.
Successful web developers are fluent in the programming languages that fuel the World Wide Web. Their projects require frequent revisions and enhancements, so web developers need patience as well as strong communication skills to interact with team members and clients. Creativity and an understanding of color theory and design concepts will also increase your value as a web developer. Web development jobs exist in all settings, including enterprises and government agencies, small to medium businesses or working alone as a freelance web developer.
Web Developer Skills & Responsibilities
Typical day-to-day activities and marketable skill sets for web developers includes:
• Are fluent in the core web development scripting languages: HTML, CSS and Javascript.
• Should know one or more server-side programming languages, such as Java, PHP and .Net.
• Use search engine optimization (SEO) to develop websites that rank high in Google, Bing, etc.
• Implement Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) to efficiently control the style of multiple pages in site.
• Develop websites that interact with popular database systems like MySQL, SQL Server & Oracle.
• Communicate with clients and colleagues to troubleshoot websites and optimize performance.

Watch out for other series on choosing a career path in IT. it promise to be informative. for more info or advice call 07066598101

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