12/12/2022
Information technology
Information technology (IT) is the use of any computers, storage, networking and other physical devices, infrastructure and processes to create, process, store, secure and exchange all forms of electronic data. Typically, IT is used in the context of business operations, as opposed to technology used for personal or entertainment purposes. The commercial use of IT encompasses both computer technology and telecommunications.
What does information technology encompass?
The IT department ensures that the organization's systems, networks, data and applications all connect and function properly. The IT team handles three major areas:
1.deploys and maintains business applications, services and infrastructure (servers, networks, storage);
2.monitors, optimizes and troubleshoots the performance of applications, services and infrastructure; and
3.oversees the security and governance of applications, services and infrastructure.
Careers in Information Technology
Chief information officer (CIO). This person is responsible for IT and computer systems that support the goals of the business.
Chief technology officer (CTO). This person sets the technology goals and policies within an organization.
IT director. This person is responsible for the function of the business's technology tools and processes. This role may also be called IT manager or IT leader.
System administrator (sys admin). This person configures, manages, supports and troubleshoots a multiuser computing environment. Within a business, this role can be divided up by technology, requiring an administrator or team dedicated to server, desktop, network administration, virtualization, or other components and technologies.
Application manager. This person's role centers on the provisioning and management of a high-value business application, such as Exchange.
Developer or software engineer. This person or team writes, updates and tests code for computer programs to meet internal or customer-facing business objectives.
Chief IT architect or IT architect. This person examines and changes IT functions to best support the business.