The future of IT (information technology) is bright, with a projected growth of 12% over the next decade. It’s no wonder that so many students are pursuing degrees and careers in IT.
But did you know that IT is actually a subset of information systems (IS)? Many confuse the two, or worse, use the terms interchangeably. This often confuses those seeking a career in the industry.
While both deal with technology and computers, there are several differences between them.
Keep reading this guide on information technology vs information systems to understand all the differences.
Information Systems Guide
Information systems are organized systems that collect, process, store and distribute data. Several components make up these systems, including people, processes, hardware, software, and telecommunications. The data is then used to analyze the system as a whole.
The field is rather broad, stretching across business and computer science.
Because of this, many assume that all information systems are computer-based. This is also the reason so many confuse IS and IT.
But an information system doesn’t have to be computer-based. In fact, IS predates modern technology. Sometimes an information system includes non-technical information systems. Combining any component, to record information or manage data, creates an information system.
There are several types of information systems, including:
- Operation support systems
- Knowledge management systems
- Database management systems
- Learning management systems
Information Systems Tips and Career Paths
Because of its broad-spectrum nature, IS is an umbrella industry. It has several smaller industries underneath it.
Thanks to this, and the fact that IS deals with how people and technology work together, the career opportunities are vast. Especially when you’ve racked up some work experience.
In the next few years, the industry will see over 500,000 new jobs. This number will increase with the evolution of and advances in technology.
For now, though, there are quite a few lucrative careers you can venture into with an IS degree. The most common are computer programming and software development.
If you’re a fan of data crunching though (which you probably are) then you could also become a computer systems analyst. Or, if you’re into research, Computer and Information Research Science might be the job for you. Although, this career path does require a master’s or doctoral degree.
You could also become an Information Security Analyst, working on ways to make the cyber world a safer place for all.
Information Technology Guide
While more commonly known, Information Technology (IT) falls under the IS umbrella. Where IS deals with a host of factors, IT mainly deals with the technological components of an information system.
The exact definition of IT is the study, design, implementation, support, or management of computer-based systems.
Like IS, IT involves several components, like software and hardware. Other components include networks, databases, and telecommunications. IT uses these components to keep people connected at various levels and in many ways.
Because of this, IT plays an important role in modern business. It mainly streamlines a company’s systems. But it’s also critical in keeping people connected.
The responsibility of an IT department keeps networks, databases, and all forms of communication up and running.
Information Technology Tips and Career Paths
Despite focusing on connectivity and technology, IT is relatively broad. With an IT degree, you could be anything from a software developer to a chief information officer.
Like IS, one of the most common jobs in the IT industry is programming. Programming is a highly sought-after field. Programmers design and develop code that creates better experiences on the web and in apps.
But you could also go into Systems Analysis. This field involves researching, planning, and implementing technological solutions to achieve a specific goal.
IT plays an important role in securing data. With an IT degree, you could pursue a career in Information Security. While most see this career as warding off hackers in the Pentagon, Information Security is helpful for many businesses too.
A company’s data is always at risk, and IT professionals aim to keep it safe and healthy. If you’re worried about your data, check out this free IT health check.
Obtaining an IT master’s degree can land you a position as IT Director. Directors in this field manage and run the entire IT infrastructure in organizations.
The Key Similarities and Differences
In the tech-driven world we live in today, both IT and IS serve many similar purposes. Because businesses and organizations use technology so heavily, often the careers of IS and IT professionals overlap.
Those with either an IS or IT degree can go into programming or systems analysis. Because they both aim to maintain the functioning of a system, Information Security is another career that stretches across both fields.
Despite their similarities, information technology and information systems are quite different.
- IS involves several components to collect, manage, and use data – including non-technical ones
- IT only focuses on technical components to manage and study computer-based information systems
- IS professionals focus on the processes, people, and technology to achieve a business’s objective
- IT professionals focus on software systems, hardware, and machines, to keep things up and running
Information Technology vs Information Systems
When it comes to information technology vs information systems, the choice can be hard. Both fields are lucrative and offer great growth potential. Ultimately, the choice you make depends on your skills and interests.
Are you interested in other business tech-related articles? Then go ahead and check out the rest of our blog.
