Providing a wide array of information services to clients requires a diverse and well-educated workforce. The majority of workers in computer systems design and related services are professional and related workers, such as computer systems analysts, computer engineers, and computer programmers. This occupational group accounts for 59 percent of the jobs in the industry, reflecting the emphasis on high-level technical skills and creativity. By 2012, the share of professional and related occupations is expected to be even greater, while the share of office and administrative support jobs, currently accounting for 14 percent of industry employment, is projected to fall.

Programmers write, test, and maintain the detailed instructions, called programs or software, that computers must follow to perform their functions. These specialized programs tell the computer what to do-for example, which information to identify and access, how to process it, and what equipment to use. Custom programmers write these commands by breaking down each step into a logical series, converting specifications into a language the computer understands. While some still work with traditional programming languages like COBOL, object-oriented programming languages, such as C++ and Java, computer-aided software engineering (CASE) tools, and artificial intelligence shells now are being used to create and maintain programs. These languages and tools allow portions of code to be reused in programs that require similar routines. Many programmers also customize a package to clients’ specific needs or create better packages.

Computer engineers design, develop, test, and evaluate computer hardware and related equipment, software programs, and systems. Although programmers write and support programs in new languages, much of the design and development now is the responsibility of software engineers or software developers. Software engineers in systems design and related services must possess strong programming skills, but are more concerned with developing algorithms and analyzing and solving programming problems for specific network systems than with actually writing code. Computer systems software engineers are primarily engaged in writing, modifying, testing, and developing software to meet the needs of a particular customer. They develop software systems for control and automation in manufacturing, business, and other areas.

Professionals involved in analyzing and solving problems include systems analysts, who study business, scientific, or engineering data processing problems and design new flows of information. Computers need to be connected to each other and to a control server to allow communication among users, thus enhancing use of their computing power. Systems analysts tie together hardware and software to give an organization the maximum benefit from its investment in machines, personnel, and business processes. To do this, they may design entirely new systems or add a single new software application to harness more of the computer’s power. They use data modeling, structured analysis, information engineering, and other methods. Systems analysts prepare charts for programmers to follow for proper coding and also perform cost-benefit analyses to help management evaluate the system. They ensure that the system performs to its specifications and test it thoroughly.

Database administrators determine ways to organize and store data and work with database management systems software. They set up computer databases and test and coordinate changes to them. Because they also may be responsible for design implementation and system security, database administrators often plan and coordinate security measures.

Computer and information scientists work as theorists, researchers, or inventors. They apply a higher level of theoretical expertise and innovation and develop solutions to complex problems relating to computer hardware and software. Computer and information scientists with advanced backgrounds in security may be employed as cyberspace security specialists in disaster recovery situations or in custom security software installation.

Computer support specialists provide technical assistance, support, and advice to customers and users. This group of occupations includes workers with a variety of titles, such as technical support specialists and help-desk technicians. These troubleshooters interpret problems, and provide technical support for hardware, software, and systems. Support specialists may work either within a company or other organization or directly for a computer hardware and software vendor. They answer telephone calls, analyze problems using automated diagnostic programs, and resolve recurrent difficulties encountered by users.

Other computer specialists include a wide range of related professionals who specialize in operation, analysis, education, application, or design for a particular piece of the system. Many are involved in the design, testing, and evaluation of network systems, such as local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), Internet, and other data communications systems. Specialty occupations reflect an emphasis on client-server applications and end-user support; however, occupational titles shift rapidly to reflect new developments in technology.

Network systems and data communications analysts, for example, design, and evaluate network systems, such as LANs, WANs, and the Internet. They perform network modeling, analysis, and planning and may deal with the interfacing of computer and communications equipment. With the explosive growth of the Internet, this group includes a variety of occupations relating to design, development, and maintenance of Web sites and their servers. Web developers are responsible for day-to-day site design and creation. Webmasters are responsible for the technical aspects of the Web site, including performance issues such as speed of access, and for approving site content.

Network or computer systems administrators install, configure, and support an organization’s LAN, WAN, network segment, or Internet system. They maintain network hardware and software, analyze problems, and monitor the network to ensure availability to system users. Administrators also may plan, coordinate, and implement network security measures. In some organizations, computer security specialists are responsible for the organization’s information security.

Computer and information systems managers direct the work of systems analysts, computer programmers, and other computer-related workers. They analyze the computer and information needs of their organization and determine personnel and equipment requirements. These managers plan and coordinate activities such as the installation and upgrading of hardware and software; programming and systems design; development of computer networks; and implementation of Internet and intranet sites.

Due, in part, to the robust growth in electronic commerce, a growing number of other workers in this industry is in sales and related occupations. In order to compete successfully and gain customers and clients in the online world, the presentation and features of Web sites and other Web-related content becomes increasingly important. The marketing and sales workers employed in this industry are responsible for promoting and selling the products and services provided by the various sectors of this industry.