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What Does an ICT Specialist Do?

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

An information and communications technology (ICT) specialist designs, maintains, and services systems used to store, retrieve, and send data. A broad spectrum of careers are available in this field, ranging from supporting a library's collection to running the technology used in military operations. Career qualifications can vary depending on the specific industry and the job, but may include a degree in computer science or a related field.

In the design of systems, an ICT specialist can work with the rest of the development team to create specifications and implement them. These technology professionals consider how a system will be used, who will be using it, and what might change in the future. The requirements for something like a bookstore's catalog and point of sale system, for example, are very different from those of an office messaging system used at a bank to keep people in touch with each other. Future developments are also a consideration. At a library, for instance, the types of media in the collection could change and the cataloging system needs to be able to accommodate them.

ICT specialists design and maintain complex computer systems in a range of industries.
ICT specialists design and maintain complex computer systems in a range of industries.

Installation of the components of information technology is also part of the job for an ICT specialist. This can include making hardware and software recommendations to clients as well as performing the installation itself. Once installed, the system can be tested and the ICT specialist can offer training for personnel who will use it. Some firms may maintain an ICT staff to offer ongoing maintenance and support, especially if they are large or their systems are complex.

Routine maintenance as well as specific service in the event of problems are also the responsibility of an ICT specialist. The technician needs to be able to update systems and perform scheduled tasks while also handling ongoing issues. These can include failing software or hardware, viral incursion, and other problems that may arise. ICT specialists may need to pursue continuing education to keep up with developments in the field, ranging from new technology to the latest hacking techniques.

Part of the work also requires considering the needs of a given industry. An ICT specialist may work in a variety of settings and needs to adjust the services offered to the audience. The requirements for an engineering firm versus a restaurant, for example, are very different. Some training for the work may include additional study in the industry where the information technology will be used in order to be able to offer the best services.

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a PracticalAdultInsights researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a PracticalAdultInsights researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

Spotiche5

@raynbow- If possible, your friend should look into furthering his education with a certificate or degree in computer science with he gets out of the military. His work in the ICT field in the military might even give him some credits and reduce the number of classes that he will need to take to complete the program. With his experience and some training, he should be able to find a position as an ICT specialist.

Heavanet

@raynbow- A lot of companies are trying to hire more veterans of the military, so your friend is very likely to find a job in this field when he gets out of the service. He should look at companies that hire ICT specialists and support veterans for his best chance of finding a good job.

Raynbow

I have a friend who is in the military and has done a lot of ICT specialist work during his enlistment. How likely is it that he will be able to get this type of work without a degree when he re-enters civilian life?

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    • ICT specialists design and maintain complex computer systems in a range of industries.
      By: chungking
      ICT specialists design and maintain complex computer systems in a range of industries.