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How to Become a Computer Systems Designer

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January 4, 2022

  1. Demand for computer systems designers appears to be growing. While the BLS doesn’t provide employment projections for the specific job title of “Computer Systems Designer”, it does report that the employment of computer and information technology occupations is projected to grow 15 percent between 2021 and 2031, which is faster than the average rate of growth for all occupations.
  2. Computer systems designers play an acritical role in modern businesses, especially technology and high-technology-based businesses, where they’re responsible for ensuring that the organization has the technical resources it needs to accomplish its stated business objectives.
  3. Because the work that systems designers complete is so critical to organizational success, they tend to be well-paid, with Upskilled reporting that system designers earn an average annual salary between $78,400 – $125,600.
  • Researching and analyzing new technology solutions, including the latest software, hardware, databases, AI solutions, and machine learning algorithms so they can suggest specific solutions based on an organization’s needs.
  • Meeting with an organization’s employees, leadership, and/or clients to create a detailed understanding of their current information systems capabilities, drawbacks, shortcomings, etc.
  • Developing a detailed information technology plan that outlines the specific components needed to upgrade an existing system, or build a new system that better meets the organization’s stated business requirements. 
  • Producing prototypes of the systems and solutions they recommend, testing them to ensure operational success, and adapting their plans for upgrading or building new systems based on tested performance.
  • Designing guidelines for programmers and engineers who will need to build the system, along with creating the implementation process, testing procedures, and other plans needed to deploy the new system or system upgrades.
  • Overseeing the creation, implementation, and final testing of any system upgrades or system deployments to ensure that everything is working properly.
  • Technical Problem Solving Skills – Problem-solving skills will be critical to your success as a computer systems designer, as you’ll need to be capable of evaluating and understanding an organization’s technology needs, then devising solutions that deliver successful results based on those needs.
  • Excellent Knowledge of Computers & Computer Best Practices – You’ll need to keep up to date on the latest technologies, including software, hardware, and other innovations, as well as cutting-edge technologies like AI and machine learning solutions.
  • Advanced IT Skills – As a systems designer, you’ll need a range of advanced IT skills, including the ability to evaluate, design, and construct complex databases, telecommunications systems, networking solutions, application development, and operating systems. Being able to effectively combine and integrate various IT systems and solutions will also be critical to your success.
  • Leadership Skills – Systems designers need to be capable of making important decisions and utilizing strong leadership skills to communicate them to others and getting buy-in from fellow team members, staff, and management. As a systems designer, you’ll be in charge of directing computing technology decisions and you’ll need to be capable of convincing others that your opinion should be valued and trusted.
  • Computer programmer
  • Computer hardware engineer
  • Computer systems analyst
  • Software developer or software engineer
  • IT business analyst
  • Analyzing technologies and computer-based systems to monitor and control development projects.
  • Applying AI and machine learning principles, as well as logic, probability analysis, and related concepts to high-tech problem-solving initiatives.
  • Developing advanced technical solutions capable of satisfying complex business requirements.
  • Establishing and achieving business objectives using techniques associated with artificial intelligence reasoning and uncertainty
  • Implementing technology-based solutions that combine modern AI and machine learning principles and best practices.
  • Using best practices with applications like speech recognition, data processing, data mining, and robotic control.
  • NCEES’s Engineer in Training Certification (EIT)
  • INCOSE’s Certified Systems Engineering Professional (CSEP) Certification
  • PMI’s Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification
  • No requirements to show up at set times or in physical locations.
  • Monthly class starts.
  • Accelerated courses.
  • A #3 ranking for Best Online IT Degree Program by Best Value Schools.
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  • A #10 ranking for Best Online Colleges for ROI from OnlineU.
  • A #1 ranking for Best Online Colleges & Schools in Colorado from Best Accredited Colleges.
  • A #1 ranking for Best Online Colleges in Colorado from Best Colleges.