People CORE CHAPTER OUTCOMES KEY TERMS

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1 6 CORE People CHAPTER OUTCOMES You will learn about: roles and responsibilities of people working in the information and software technology field careers in information and software You will learn to: examine the contributions of people working in the field of information and software technology explore career opportunities and pathways within the field of information and software KEY TERMS Computer forensics analyst recovers data from computers and other digital devices in order to provide evidence of illegal or inappropriate activities Computer scientist designs and develops new hardware and software technology Cyber security expert develops ways of protecting data and computer systems connected to the internet E-learning designer creates digital teaching and learning resources Multimedia specialist produces computer displays using text, graphics, video, animation and audio Online music promoter plans and produces marketing campaigns to sell music Programmer writes code used to create, update and maintain software packages Project manager manages a project in order to keep it on schedule and within budget Software engineer designs and develops software for operating systems and application programs Support staff provide assistance for people who have problems with their computer system Systems analyst designs and manages information systems in order to solve problems related to computer technology Technician installs, repairs and maintains computers, servers and other hardware devices Training specialist plans, coordinates and teaches a range of activities related to information and software technology Website designer designs, creates and maintains websites 72

2 IN ACTION Computer forensics analysts Information and software technology has brought many benefits to our lives but has also enabled people to devise new and more ingenious ways of committing crimes. Computer crime is one of the fastest growing areas of criminal activity throughout the world and this has created a demand for computer forensics analysts (CFA). Computer criminals generally leave digital tracks, and it is the responsibility of a CFA to uncover and analyse them. However, this is not always easy, as anti-forensics applications are regularly used to hide or delete a data trail and computer crimes often transverse many borders, requiring investigations which leap from server to server. The highly complex world of computer forensics analysis requires deep technical expertise and knowledge in order to retrieve data from a range of electronic devices. Digital retrieval may involve a range of sources including social network postings, text messages, voic , illegally downloaded files and closed circuit television (CCTV) footage. CFAs may be required to uncover evidence related to a range of digital crimes including internet piracy, identity theft, money laundering, sexual harassment and electronic stalking. They are also involved with traditional crimes. A murder investigation, for example, may require an examination of a suspect s computer and mobile phone. Data will often need to be recovered from a device even if the user has deleted information or reformatted the hard disk. Other roles and responsibilities of a CFA may include: recovering data in the event of a hardware or software failure gathering evidence against an employee suspected of inappropriate use of technology facilities recovering passwords attending court to provide factual and expert evidence. It is important to remember, however, computer forensics analysis is not always accurately portrayed in movies and television shows such as CSI: Crime Scene Investigation. Computer forensics often requires painstaking patience as it may take days, weeks, or even months to perform a comprehensive analysis of a digital device. Questions 1 Identify the reasons why digital tracks may be difficult to uncover. 2 List the computer crimes which may require the investigative services of a computer forensic analyst. 3 Research the meaning of cyber espionage and summarise a recent case of this type of computer crime.? Figure 6.1 WikiLeaks is an international non-profi t organisation that publishes submissions of private, secret and classifi ed media from anonymous news sources and news leaks. US prosecutors are seeking to review the Twitter account data from WikiLeaks by conducting detailed computer forensic examinations, in order to fi nd out who the sources are. 73

3 6.1 Roles and responsibilities A career in information and software technology is obviously not for everyone, but for those interested in working in this area, there are many possibilities from which to choose. This core chapter provides an overview of the various roles and responsibilities of people who work in information and software Computer scientists Computer scientists design and develop hardware and software technologies. Specific tasks may include providing new approaches to security or devising improved methods for using computers in areas such as robotics, computer vision, medical research or digital forensics. Computer scientists generally require in-depth knowledge of the theoretical foundations of computer systems and the ability to construct and comprehend complex algorithms. Cyber security experts Understanding how systems may be penetrated and misused is a highly specialised skill possessed by only a small percentage of information technology professionals. A capacity to think outside the box in terms of how a system s defences may be unravelled is a valuable asset for a cyber security expert, as is the ability to implement action when a security breach is uncovered. E-learning designers E-learning (electronic learning) designers use information and software technology to deliver education and training. There is still a debate about how computers should be used effectively in an educational environment but the demand for skilful and imaginative e-learning designers who can create engaging digital teaching and learning resources is likely to remain. Multimedia specialists Multimedia specialists use text, graphics, video, animation and audio to produce engaging computer displays. They are often found working in the entertainment, marketing, education and communication industries. INFOBIT Multimedia specialists constitute a relatively small percentage of the Australian workforce but the number of people working in the industry has trebled in the past ten years and continues to grow. Figure 6.2 Multimedia specialists may be involved in the creation of a range of products, including animated fi lms, video games, satellite navigation systems, video clips, websites and mobile phone applications. Programmers A programmer writes the code used to create, update and maintain software packages. A programmer also assists systems analysts and project managers to determine the type of software a user or client needs. The programmer translates the solution into a programming language and must also test and debug the code to ensure it is error-free. Project managers The principles of good project management apply across every industry and can be applied to many tasks, from making a dress to constructing an aeroplane. The field of information and software technology includes projects such as the creation of websites, video games, hardware devices, computer networks and operating systems. A project manager is required to keep the process on schedule and within budget by providing clear communication about goals, responsibilities, performance and expectations. 74 Information and Software Technology

4 Figure 6.3 Project management has been around for a long time. The great temples of the Incas, the Egyptian pyramids and the Sydney Harbour Bridge could not have been completed without effective project management. Software engineers Software engineers are involved in the design and development of software for operating systems and application programs. They use different programming languages, depending upon the purpose of the program, and solve technical problems in existing software. A software engineer must be a licensed professional. Support staff Support staff provide assistance for people who are having problems with their computer system. Most large organisations have support staff, or help desks, to answer user questions. A help desk is a department within an organisation that responds to users technical questions. Support staff should be able to recognise and interpret the meaning of common error codes. They also need to be able to fix general problems associated with the daily use of hardware. More specialised hardware tasks, including the installation, repair and maintenance of computers, servers and other devices, are usually the responsibility of technicians. Systems analysts Systems analysts (also referred to as business analysts) play a critical role in the development and upgrading of information systems. The systems analyst s task is primarily to solve problems related to computer 1 Name four projects a project manager in the field of information and software technology may undertake. 2 Explain why the capacity to think outside the box is a valuable asset for a security expert. 3 Contrast the roles and responsibilities of software engineers and programmers. technology by designing and managing the development of information systems. Most analysts specialise in specific types of systems, such as accounting systems, financial systems or engineering systems. Training specialists The rapid spread of computers has placed more and more demands on people in terms of the technology skills they need to work, live and learn. Training specialists are educators who plan, coordinate and teach a range of activities related to information and software Website designers If you are like most internet users, you probably have several favourite websites which you visit regularly. Designing and creating a website which stands out in a saturated digital environment requires an imaginative combination of graphic design skills and technical knowledge. Web servers, common coding languages [including HTML (HyperText Markup Language), XHTML (Extensible HyperText Markup Language), Oracle Javascript and PHP: Hypertext Preprocessor], search engine optimisation and colour psychology are just some of the areas with which website designers should be familiar. In addition to building websites, designers may be required to liaise with clients and are often expected to maintain and ensure the continued functionality of websites. 4 Describe the skills required by a website designer. 5 Use the internet to research the roles and responsibilities of video game developers. Chapter 6 People 75

5 6.2 Careers in information and software technology From the animations in popular movies such as Toy Story 3 to advances in medical treatment and research, technology is embedded in almost every facet of the modern world. As our reliance on information and software technology increases, so does the demand for skilled information technology workers. Career paths Despite the wide variety of career opportunities associated with information software and technology, it is difficult to make anything other than broad general statements about the qualifications and skills necessary for a career in the industry. Written and oral communication skills are very important, as is a solid all-round education. While technical abilities are obviously essential, interpersonal skills are often just as important. During high school, work experience and vocational courses may prove valuable in determining whether or not you are suited to a career in information Once you have finished high school, there are a number of education and training paths from which to choose, including technical colleges, universities and private institutions. Keep in mind that some universities offer information technology scholarships. Internships and apprenticeships are also a worthwhile starting point for a career in information and software They are often sourced via government departments or by contacting employers directly. Social networking websites may also provide valuable contacts in the IT job market. INFOBIT The information technology sector is one of the fastest growing areas in terms of self-employment opportunities. Self-employment offers attractive financial rewards and allows people to have greater control of their own career. But it is probably not the right option for people who want stability and do not like regular change. Rapid technological advances and the dynamic nature of today s businesses mean that self-employed information technology professionals will have to constantly update their skills. Figure 6.4 The computer-generated imagery animation in Rango was created by Industrial Light and Magic, the same visual effects company that created the visual effects for Star Wars. 76 Information and Software Technology

6 Talent-spotting tweeters Figure 6.5 A job in the A&R department of a record label is a highly sought-after position. A&R scouts regularly attend live gigs and are increasingly using technology in their quest for new talent. Engaging on consumers terms is a key focus for those seeking to uncover new talent in the music industry and networking services such as Twitter are used to ask people for requests or their opinions about particular artists. A&R recruits can also Twitpic artists live from gigs and engage with music lovers instead of just publishing press releases. Rather than reading static content, fans can connect with the blogosphere to discover and support new music. Blogs are one of the most useful tools for an A&R department as they represent an up-to-date and primary source of information. Specific qualifications are not required to work in the industry so there is no reason why you can t make your mark in A&R without formal credentials. As with most areas in the music trade, establishing contacts with others in the industry is the best way to find a paid job. Social networks are one way of achieving this. A&R positions are rarely advertised so you may be able to start by finding unpaid work as a talent spotter and moving into a paid position if a vacancy arises. Above all, you should have a passion for music and understand the current tastes of the market.? Questions In the music industry, A&R stands for artist and repertoire. Recording companies generally have an A&R department which is responsible for finding new artists and signing them to their label. If you work in an A&R department your job description includes listening to new music, visiting recording studios and attending live shows. 1 Summarise the job description of an A&R talent spotter. 2 Explain how A&R workers use technology as part of their job. 3 Research and describe the meaning of the term blogosphere. Technology is increasingly playing a part in this area of the music industry and the latest generation of A&R recruits has been creatively building a career with the help of social media. Tech-savvy A&R people attend gigs and blog about them, engage with other fans via Twitter and Facebook, check out new tunes on sites such as MySpace and generally participate in an online community characterised by a passion for music. 4 A&R scouts are not usually considered part of the IT sector. Make a list of occupations which have not traditionally used computers but are becoming increasingly reliant on information 1 Citing examples, explain how society has become more reliant on information and software 2 Apart from technical ability, identify the skills information technology employers may seek in a potential employee. 4 Discuss the potential of social networking services to assist people pursuing a career in information 3 Research ten information technology jobs advertised in The Australian or Sydney Morning Herald newspapers or their online equivalents. Draw up a table and group 5 Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of being a self-employed information and software technology worker. these jobs into appropriate categories (e.g. multimedia) and list their educational requirements and salaries. Chapter 6 People 77