Will “Information Scientist” be Automated?

Core Skills & Abilities

• Recommend new equipment or software packages.

• Test, maintain, and monitor computer programs and systems, including coordinating the installation of computer programs and systems.

• Train staff and users to work with computer systems and programs.

• Troubleshoot program and system malfunctions to restore normal functioning.

• Expand or modify system to serve new purposes or improve work flow.

• Analyze information processing or computation needs and plan and design computer systems, using techniques such as structured analysis, data modeling, and information engineering.

• Interview or survey workers, observe job performance, or perform the job to determine what information is processed and how it is processed.

• Use object-oriented programming languages, as well as client and server applications development processes and multimedia and Internet technology.

• Prepare cost-benefit and return-on-investment analyses to aid in decisions on system implementation.

• Confer with clients regarding the nature of the information processing or computation needs a computer program is to address.

• Consult with management to ensure agreement on system principles.

• Define the goals of the system and devise flow charts and diagrams describing logical operational steps of programs.

• Review and analyze computer printouts and performance indicators to locate code problems, and correct errors by correcting codes.

• Provide staff and users with assistance solving computer-related problems, such as malfunctions and program problems.

• Determine computer software or hardware needed to set up or alter systems.

• Use the computer in the analysis and solution of business problems, such as development of integrated production and inventory control and cost analysis systems.

• Assess the usefulness of pre-developed application packages and adapt them to a user environment.

• Develop, document, and revise system design procedures, test procedures, and quality standards.

• Coordinate and link the computer systems within an organization to increase compatibility so that information can be shared.

• Specify inputs accessed by the system and plan the distribution and use of the results.

• Supervise computer programmers or other systems analysts or serve as project leaders for particular systems projects.

• Read manuals, periodicals, and technical reports to learn how to develop programs that meet staff and user requirements.