The Evolution of IT Management: Why Global Technology Management Skills Are Important (and How an MSIT Could Help)
A degree may open the door to a variety of opportunities and diverse career paths. The degree programs offered at AIU will not necessarily lead to the featured careers. This collection of articles is intended to help inform and guide you through the process of determining which level of degree and types of certifications align with your desired career path.
The Evolution of IT Management: Why Global Technology Management Skills Are Important (and How an MSIT Could Help)
The world of Information Technology (IT) is in a constant state of flux. What was cutting-edge yesterday is often obsolete tomorrow, and the role of IT management has had to evolve at an equally rapid pace. No longer can IT managers simply focus on maintaining infrastructure and keeping the lights on. Today, they must be strategic thinkers, adept communicators, and possess a strong grasp of global technology management principles. This article will explore the evolution of IT management and highlight why global technology management skills could now be an important part of success. We'll also delve into how a Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT) degree program, , such as the one offered by AIU, could help equip aspiring and current IT professionals with the tools needed in this dynamic environment.
From Support Role to Strategic Driver
IT managers focus on planning, coordinating, and directing computer-related activities in an organization.1
However, the rise of the internet, mobile computing, cloud services, and data analytics has fundamentally changed the role of IT. Technology is no longer just a support function; it's a strategic driver of innovation, competitive advantage, and business growth. Many organizations now expect IT managers to1:
- Analyze their organization’s IT needs and recommend possible upgrades
- Plan and direct the installation and maintenance of computer hardware and software
- Establish and maintain processes to detect, prevent, and mitigate IT security threats
- Assess the costs and benefits of new projects and justify funding for projects
- Determine personnel needs for their department
- Plan and direct the work of other IT staff, including computer systems analysts, software developers, information security analysts, and computer support specialists
- Negotiate with and monitor vendors to ensure high-quality performance for the organization’s IT needs
How an MSIT Degree Program Could Help
An MSIT degree program, such as the one offered by AIU, is designed to help IT professionals develop knowledge and skills relevant to today's globalized environment. The AIU MSIT degree program, offers a curriculum that directly addresses the evolving needs of IT management.
Here's how the AIU MSIT degree program aligns with the essential skills outlined above:
- Global Technology Management: The program includes a dedicated course on "Global Technology Management," which focuses on the knowledge required to oversee software development.
- Advanced Technical Communication: The "Advanced Technical Communication" course focuses on the skills required to communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders. This course is designed to help equip students with the ability to craft executive briefs, design specifications, and project plans tailored for diverse audiences.
- Enterprise Architecture: The "Enterprise Architecture" course is designed to provide students with the opportunity to analyze enterprise requirements and recommend specific architecture based on IT requirements.
- Innovations and Emerging Media: The 'Innovations and Emerging Media' course introduces students to recent technological advancements and methods for evaluating new technologies with consideration for ethical, social, legal and cultural issues.
Furthermore, the AIU MSIT degree program emphasizes a problem-based, research-based approach, supporting the application of knowledge to real-world scenarios. The program is led by faculty who bring their industry experience into the classroom, helping to provide students with practical insights and guidance.
Conclusion
In today's globalized world, IT managers typically need a strong understanding of global technology management principles to effectively manage technology across international borders. An MSIT degree program, such as the one offered by AIU, is designed to help IT professionals work to develop knowledge and skills relevant to today's dynamic and global IT environment. By focusing on technology management, technical communication, enterprise architecture, and emerging technologies, the AIU MSIT degree program is designed to support student preparation for a variety of roles in the global IT landscape. As technology continues to evolve, pursuing an MSIT degree may support professional growth and adaptation to changes in the IT field.
1Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Computer and Information Systems Managers, at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/computer-and-informationsystems-managers.htm (visited June 08, 2025).
American InterContinental University cannot guarantee employment, salary, or career advancement. Not all programs are available to residents of all states. REQ2136559 6/2025