Computer Systems Design and Related IT Services

Virtually all organizations rely on IT to conduct business and run efficiently. Many organizations often turn to IT professionals for computer network support when faced with limitations of the internal resources to effectively design, implement, or manage the products and systems that they need.  (Looking for IT professionals in New Jersey?)

Business Computer Systems Design Services As an Industry

Overview

Computer systems design and related services are expected to be among the fastest-growing industries in the U.S. economy. The computer systems design and related services industry grew exponentially throughout the 1990s. During that time, employment in that sphere more than doubled. After explosive growth, the employment rate within the industry has slowed down, specifically in the first several years after the year 2000. Nevertheless, this industry is still growing and is projected to be one of the 10 fastest growing in the U.S., and probably the world in general.  Job opportunities should be excellent for most workers, with the best opportunities occurring for computer specialists. In 2007, Computer Systems Design Services in New Jersey had 6.15% of the Nation’s establishments within the industry, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

• In 2008, computer specialists accounted for 55 percent of the jobs in this industry, with the main emphasis on technical skills.
• Because of the high proportion of workers in professional occupations, the education level of workers in this industry is higher than average.
• Job opportunities should be excellent for most workers, with the best opportunities occurring for computer specialists.

Establishments in this industry design computer and information systems perform various tasks:

• Develop custom software programs.
• Provide computer facilities management services.
• Perform IT Support functions, such as software installation and disaster recovery services.
• In some cases IT professionals work on a contract basis, assisting an organization with a particular project or issue.
• In other cases  IT professionals are hired for ongoing activities, such as:
  • Computer network monitoring
  • Management of an onsite data center
  • Performing help-desk duties

Computer Network Security Specialists

The widespread use of the Internet and Intranets, and an increasing amount of browser-based applications and cloud services have resulted in an increased focus on information security. Security threats range from damaging computer viruses to online credit card fraud and identity theft, as various firms use the Internet to exchange sensitive information with clients. In order to mitigate this threat, many organizations are employing the services of IT security consulting firms. These firms audit computer systems for areas of vulnerability, manage firewalls, perform intrusion detection and provide protection against malware and viruses.

Professional IT Occupations

IT professionals are dedicated to their chosen field of work.  Did you know that about 19 percent work 50 or more hours a week? According to the U.S. Department of Labor,  Computer Specialists account for about 55%  of the industry as a whole. Their roles vary by occupation and include such tasks as developing computer software, designing information systems, and maintaining network security. Here are some general occupations typical for the Computer Systems Design  and Related IT services industry:

• Computer Programmers
• Computer Software engineers
• Software developers
• Computer Systems Analysts
• Network Systems and Data Communications Analysts
• Web Developers
• Webmasters
• Computer Support Specialists
• Technical Support Specialists and Helpdesk Technicians.
• Computer and Information Systems Managers
• IT industry Vendor Liaisons
• IT Sales and related occupations

Occupations in the business computer systems design and related services industry require varying levels of education, but because of the high proportion of workers in professional occupations, the education level of workers in the IT industry is higher than average. The level of education and type of training required to depend on employers’ needs, which often are affected by such aspects as local demand for workers, project timelines, and changes in technology and business conditions. For example, the recent emphasis on IT and computer network vulnerabilities has increased the demand for workers with expertise in IT security.