What Is Automated Data Processing?
Do you want to find out how automated messages are sent, and are you interested in a career in the information technology field? If so, then read on learn more about automated data processing and some careers related to the technology.
Overview of Automated Data Processing
Automated data processing is the creation and implementation of technology that automatically processes data. This technology includes computers and other communications electronics that can gather, store, manipulate, prepare and distribute data. The purpose of automated data processing is to quickly and efficiently process large amounts of information with minimal human interaction and share it with a select audience. Examples of automated data processing applications in the modern world include emergency broadcast signals, campus security updates and emergency weather advisories.
Important Facts About Jobs in Automated Data Processing
| Sales Representative | Computer Support Specialist | Computer Scientist | Computer and Information Systems Manager | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary (2021) | $94,840 (for sales representatives, wholesale and manufacturing, technical and scientific products) | $49,770 (for user support); $62,760 (for network support) | $131,490 (for computer and information research scientists) | $159,010 (for computer and information systems managers) |
| Job Outlook (2021-2031) | 4% (for wholesale and manufacturing sales representatives) | 6% (for computer support specialists) | 21% (for computer and information research scientists) | 16% (for computer and information systems managers) |
| Prerequisites | Bachelor's degree might be required to sell technical products | Bachelor's degree in a computer-related field; strong computer science background and certification | Doctoral degree in computer science, IT or another field related to automated data processing | Computer science bachelor's degree, master's degree; previous work experience in IT |
| Similar Occupations | Inside sales representative, outside sales representative | Computer programmer | Specialist in robotics, data mining or programming | Chief technology officer, IT director, IT security manager |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Career Opportunities
There are many different vocational opportunities in automated data processing, depending on your talents and interests. For example, if you possess excellent communication and sales skills, you might acquire a sales representative position at an automated data processing company. With education, you might qualify for more advanced positions related to automated data processing, such as tech support, computer science or computer and information systems management.
Sales Representatives
As a sales representative for an automated data processing company, you'd help customers find the right services for their needs, answer any questions they have and finalize sales. You might be involved with price negotiation, contact preparation and order processing. In addition, you'll likely address any additional concerns customers have after they make their purchases.
Computer Support Specialists
As a computer support professional who specializes in automated data processing, you'll provide technical support to clients who use automated data processing equipment. You'll generally help these clients over the phone or via e-mail. In some cases, a position might call for you to visit a customer's location in order to deal with the issue directly.
Computer Scientist
If you're interested in researching and creating new automated data processing equipment, then becoming a computer scientist could be the right career move for you. After finding employment, you may be assigned to update existing company technology or conduct research and develop advancements in automated data processing technology. You might also publish your work in an academic journal and solve computer problems in the organization.
Computer and Information Systems Manager
Computer and information systems managers oversee the use of all information technology on behalf of companies. As a systems manager, you might find employment with an automated data processing company; however, businesses and organizations that use automated data processing also need systems managers. In such positions, you may be directly in charge of the day-to-day use and operation of your company's automated data processing equipment.