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Information technology (IT) is increasingly entwined with modern business. While IT provides new opportunities for innovative and more efficient business processes, it also exposes companies to cybercrime threats. Bolster your qualifications and validate your knowledge of IT best practices with an online short course from the University of Cape Town (UCT).
In the digital age, almost all businesses rely on IT to some extent to operate. Whether working at a company that’s primarily IT-focused or just beginning to build IT infrastructure, skilled employees with knowledge of IT are an integral part of the modern workforce. At the head of any, IT team is the IT manager who works within an organisation to plan, direct, and coordinates the activities relating to information systems. This role adds value by ensuring that IT supports business goals and helps employees work efficiently and effectively.
As the digital realm is constantly evolving, IT managers need to keep up with the latest technologies, IT infrastructure, and best practices in the field. However, this role requires more than technical expertise. As IT functions touch almost every aspect of a business, leaders in this line of work also need the skills to manage people, processes, budgets, and resources in an IT context. Managerial competencies and creative and critical thinking skills elevate an IT manager to a key partner in achieving strategic objectives. Forward-thinking IT professionals contribute to innovation by identifying opportunities for the integration of new technologies and streamlined systems. They are also an important safeguard against data breaches and cybersecurity threats.
With more business functions moving online, organisations collect, store, and process vast amounts of sensitive data. As a result, companies are at increased risk of experiencing cyber crimes such as data breaches and ransomware attacks. In 2020, phishing attacks increased by 11 per cent from the previous year, and attacks involving ransomware rose by 6 per cent. Most importantly, 85 per cent of breaches involved a human element. These findings highlight the need for dedicated cybersecurity activities within organisations and education and training around risks across business functions.
Companies that actively develop cybersecurity measures are better placed to prevent or react to breaches and are therefore more resilient in the face of these threats. As each business has its own information security needs, IT and cybersecurity practitioners must develop cybersecurity compliance and incident management plans tailored to these unique requirements.
Study strategic IT management or cybersecurity and help to propel your organisation into the digital future. Learn practical skills and earn a certificate of completion from the University of Cape Town.