How to become an Information Technologist

In today’s technology-oriented world, the work of an Information technologist allows a business that makes use of a large number of computers to stay active in the competition, by supporting the company’s computer systems and technological infrastructure. Minor to moderate scale technical issues are also resolved by the Information Technologist, as well as hardware and software concerns. Their work involves catering to the technical needs of the business to ensure that the IT systems in use are appropriately implemented, monitored, and maintained.

Employers of Information Technologists generally expect them to be able to perform routine computer security duties and ensure the efficiency of the entire IT support that the organization requires. They can take up more specific roles through obtaining specialization in tasks such as maintaining systems, providing security, develop software etc. These are the professionals that the organization counts upon for providing all sorts of system and operations support

Some of the main responsibilities that an Information Technologist is tasked with includes:

• To ensure the security of the network, data, and the information systems
• Generate back-ups for the company’s data
• Provide support to the requests/complaints raised by users regarding the software
• Enhance the technological efficiency by conducting tests on the company’s system, programs, equipment and
• Order and maintain records of the hardware and software inventory of the company and guide the company regarding the purchasing of the same
• Develop and implement strategies to safeguard data and security during technology-related emergency situations
• Maintain documentation about the organization’s IT ecosystem
• Assess and resolve issues of the company’s hardware and software as well as provide training/ usage manuals for the staff
• Install operating systems as well as the computer hardware and software and their upgrades when necessary
• Assist in the designing, development, and implementation of any new system or equipment
• Test and evaluate any new technology being used by the company

While narrower areas of specialization are possible under this career option, there are certain key features that remain common to all specializations. Knowledge of programming languages and coding adds to the skills. Familiarity with operating systems such as C++, Java, Microsoft Windows and Linux is a necessary factor to successfully perform the job duties of an Information Technologist. They require strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Since they need to address the interests and concerns of the users of the company’s IT systems, customer service skills such as effective communication and listening are of importance too, in order to aid these interpersonal aspects of their role.

They must also be able to explain technical concepts with clarity to those who belong to different backgrounds as an Information Technologist shall be involved in training the users of the software/hardware, as well as collaborate with other professionals on projects if necessary. This role also calls for the ability to work as a part of a team and multitask. Apart from their verbal skills, their written skills need to be sharp as well for documentation purposes. As technology is evolving rapidly, an Information Technologist shall also need to keep up with the knowledge of new software, systems etc.

Salary information for an Information Technologist in India:

• Minimum Monthly Salary: For entry-level Information Technologists or those starting their careers, the monthly salary may range from INR 25,000 to INR 35,000, depending on the organization and location.
• Maximum Monthly Salary: Highly skilled and experienced Information Technologists working in reputed IT companies or multinational corporations can earn a monthly salary of INR 1,00,000 to INR 2,00,000 or more.
• Annual Salary: The annual salary of an Information Technologist can be from INR 3,00,000 to several lakhs, depending on factors such as expertise, level of experience, and the scale of the company they work for.
• Highest Paying Job and Scope: The highest paying job for an Information Technologist is often found in senior management positions, such as IT Managers, IT Consultants, or IT Project Managers. Those with specialized skills in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, cloud computing, and software development can command higher salaries.The scope for Information Technologists in India is promising as technology plays a crucial role in businesses and industries. Information Technologists work on various projects, including software development, network administration, cybersecurity, data analytics, system integration, and digital transformation initiatives.

For Diploma Course
In every state Board of Technical Education (BTE) has its separate polytechnic entrance exam for the diploma courses. Here is the list of top diploma entrance exams:

• Delhi CET
• Haryana Diploma Entrance Test (DET)
• Karnataka Diploma Common Entrance Test (DCET)
• West Bengal JEXPO and VOCLET

For Under-Graduate Courses

• Joint Entrance Exam (JEE)
• All India Engineering Entrance Exam (AIEEE)
• Birla Institute of Technology and Science Admission Test (BITSAT)

For Post-Graduate Courses
For post-graduate courses, various institutes conduct different entrance test as per their rules and regulations. List of some prominent PG entrance exams is as under:

• GATE
• AMIE (India) Exam
• IPU CET MTECH

For Doctoral Courses
For doctoral courses also, various institutes conduct different entrance test as per their rules and regulations. Some of the most sought after entrance exam for doctoral courses are mentioned as under:

• IIST Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology Thiruvananthapuram
• Indian Institute of Science (IIS)
• Centre of Behavioral and Cognitive Sciences (CBCS), University of Allahabad PhD Entrance Exam
• CSIR / UGC / NBHM / DBT

Information Technologists, also known as IT professionals, have a wide range of industries open to them due to the growing importance of technology in virtually every sector of the economy. Some of the industries where Information Technologists can find opportunities include:

• Information Technology Services: IT companies and firms that provide software development, web development, IT consulting, and other technology-related services.
• Financial Services: Banks, financial institutions, and fintech companies often hire IT professionals to develop and maintain their digital banking platforms, security systems, and financial software.
• Healthcare: The healthcare industry relies on IT professionals to manage electronic health records (EHR), develop medical software, and ensure the security of patient data.
• Education: Educational institutions need IT experts to manage their networks, implement e-learning platforms, and maintain educational software.
• E-commerce: Online retail platforms require IT professionals to develop and manage e-commerce websites, payment gateways, and customer databases.
• Manufacturing: Manufacturing companies use IT professionals to implement automation systems, manage production software, and optimize manufacturing processes.
• Government and Public Sector: Government agencies require IT experts to develop and maintain government websites, cybersecurity systems, and digital services for citizens.
• Telecommunications: Companies need IT professionals to manage their networks, develop communication software, and ensure data security.
• Media and Entertainment: The media industry relies on IT experts for content management systems, digital media distribution, and online streaming platforms.
• Energy and Utilities: Energy companies often employ IT professionals to manage their data systems, develop energy management software, and implement smart grid technology.
• Transportation and Logistics: The transportation sector uses IT professionals to optimize logistics processes, implement tracking systems, and develop transportation software.
• Consulting and Professional Services: IT professionals can work in consulting firms to offer technology solutions and advisory services to clients from various industries.