Companies are built on information. No matter what industry they are in—from health care to nonprofits—all businesses rely on the skillful selection, processing and application of data. Data processing managers are information technology (IT) professionals with specialized knowledge of the data processing cycle and how it can be used to further the company’s competitive advantage.

It is an administrative function that involves acquiring, processing and managing data. The insights gained by data processing management professionals can be passed along to senior management, enabling executives to make informed business decisions. In other words, skillful data processing management can allow a business to flourish, become more profitable and meet its long-term objectives.

The specific duties can vary from one company to the next. In general, data processing managers are responsible for the storage and organization of the data collected by the company. They may also help establish the company’s information technology goals. Some of the specific job responsibilities may include any of the following:

• Evaluate the company’s current computing technology and recommend hardware or software upgrades
• Monitor the efficiency of the data processing department and continually seek improvements
• Coordinate the installation of data communication systems, software and hardware
• Develop procedures and technical standards for the operation and maintenance of the company’s computer systems
• Manage personnel decisions in the data processing department, including hiring, training and supervising

In addition, a data processing manager may be responsible for preparing and administering the departmental budget and negotiating with external vendors. They may also be required to prepare and present reports on their department’s progress to senior executives or the board of directors.

Data processing management is typically an office job. These professionals tend to spend a great deal of time working at their desks alone or in collaboration with their co-workers. They tend to work an average of 40 hours per week, although occasional overtime might be required for managers in certain companies. Occasionally, data processing managers may need to travel to meet with external vendors, attend industry conferences or supervise satellite offices.

The data processing cycle is a sequence of events that applies to the collection and use of data. To understand the cycle, it’s helpful to understand exactly what is meant by “data.” Data are raw facts, such as numbers, symbols or images. After the data are processed, they turn into meaningful information or output that the company can use to achieve its goals. The data processing cycle includes the following components:

• Data collection
• Data input (converting the data to a binary form readable by computers)
• Data processing (transforming input data into a meaningful form—information)
• Data output (distributing the information)

If you aspire to pursue a career in data processing management, consider earning your master’s degree online at Grand Canyon University. The Colangelo College of Business offers the Master of Science in Information Technology Management degree program to future business leaders with a background in information technology. Click on Request Information at the top of your screen to begin your academic journey today.