Information Technology Auditors bridge the gap between finance and computer science. They gather systems data and information to analyze tech performance. That means they score the efficiency and effectiveness of an organization's technology systems. The system must be running efficiently and cost-effectively. This is the crux of an IT Auditor’s work.
What is the Role of an IT Auditor?
IT Auditors conduct analyses and then give written and verbal records to their directors. This will often include recommendations for improvement and directives to fix issues. On a more day-to-day basis, they examine data with a concise and keen eye for detail. From that, they draw conclusions and keep records of all their findings so that when they present their report, they can back up all their claims.
After doing the analysis, an IT Auditor would follow through with management and investigate where optimizations can be made. The whole point is to better company procedures. An IT Auditor's job is multi-tiered; it starts with analysis and planning. Then, the auditor must follow through with execution and commitment to new procedures.
Qualifications for becoming an IT Auditor
Many IT Auditor degree programs fall into the field of Management, which can include both Information Systems and Business. Many different degree programs could lead to an IT Auditor career.
Even though Computer Science knowledge is vital, the business element matters too! An auditor needs to understand the company being assessed. A business management perspective can help with this.
Information Systems degrees cover computer and digital information. IT auditing focuses on information. So, it makes sense that these info-centric degrees work well to prepare a future IT Auditor. Much like in business, these come at many levels. This could be a certification, associate's, bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD degree.
The common degree level held by most working Info Tech Auditors is bachelor’s level. That could be either a Bachelor of Science or Arts; it doesn’t matter. But the four-year degree program completion is what matters most.
What Skills Do You Need to Become an IT Auditor?
Security Maintenance is essential to this career. It’s all about testing security measures to make sure protocols and procedures work. This essential skill can be learned through InfoSec courses where they not only teach the protocols and procedures but also how to test them for proper execution.
Internal Audit takes a detailed account of the situation. That’s a critical skill, which is why it counts for 4% on the importance scale. IT Auditors are key for this very skill. They are the accountants of all measures when it comes to Information Technology.
IT Auditor Job Titles to Look For
When employers look for an IT Auditor, they give the role many names. Different names to be on the lookout for could be:
- IT Security Associate Director
They all refer to the same position and responsibilities. So, when job seeking, smart applicants search with creative terms. Try searching skills and responsibilities because positions go by various titles.
Professional Resources for IT Auditors
Many organizations have resources to help aspiring or current IT Auditors. Some are website portals like KnowledgeLeader.com which provide pages and pages of useful free classes and data. Others give standards and practices such as The Institute of Internal Auditors.
The most well-known such organization is ISACA. They offer many services including certifications to industry pros.
Continuing Education
MIS/TI Training Institute
The training program offers professional development for Information Technology Audit training. It’s designed for business auditors without a computer background. They offer several required seminars to achieve a certificate in IT Auditing. But they also offer several elective seminars. The best part is the convenient structure of this program. There are online and in-person options.
#J-18808-Ljbffr