CAREER GUIDE MANUAL - Inseta

354.8 IT TECHNICIAN / SUPPORT OFFICER 98.4.1 Nature of workBecause computer systems are crucial for most business activities such as theprocessing of financial transactions, sales and production, orders, anddispatches and record keeping, systems downtime must be avoided orminimised. IT technicians are tasked with ensuring the smooth running ofcomputer systems and the ongoing functionality of individual workstations.These technical support officers are required to assemble, install, maintainand repair computer hardware, software and network equipment.IT technicians are often responsible for specific areas of the computer andbusiness systems such as file servers, printers and scanners, and local areanetworks. They work behind the scenes to ensure that business systems runsmoothly, and they assist front-end users with problems at workstations. ITtechnicians diagnose and repair hardware faults and replace dysfunctionalparts. They are also called upon to solve the numerous problems experiencedby computer users. IT support officers liaise with their clients by phone, e-mailor on site and endeavour to deliver functional and reliable computers andsystems in the shortest possible time. They spend many hours with computerusers and are required to explain solutions repeatedly.IT technicians may also be required to keep records of software andequipment and to run test programmes.8.4.2 Personal requirementsIT technicians should haveextensive knowledge of computer systems, including hardwarecomponents, networks, operating platforms and software used bybusinesses;good listening and communication skills to work with their clients;patience and persistence;talent for analysing and solving problems;logical and practical thinking skills;good hand-eye co-ordination to service and repair computercomponents;9The information relating to the career of an IT technician / support officer was sourced from www.careers.co.za;www.kiwicareers.gov.nz; www.prospects.ac.uk; www.collegegrad.com.