MIS Personnel
References Training & Skills Case (Last Item)
November 16, 1992
Database administrators are the unsung heroes of information systems, says Marilyn Cumberland, manager of the data administration/computer center at COMSAT Corp. in Washington, D.C. "We're sort of the engine that runs everything," she says. However like most engines, they seldom get much attention until things go wrong
What database administrators do is critical for the smooth operation of an enterprise. They manage the physical and logical aspects of the database and work with systems analysts to create tables and indexes that let users access data. They also maintain the tables, back up and recover the data, monitor direct-access storage device use, troubleshoot and help the systems staff fine-tune the operating system. They are the keepers of the data, says Dean Flannigan, database administrator at Quality Stores, Inc. in North Muskegon, Mich.
The demand for database administrators is good, as are job security and growth potential. Database technology will likely continue to be an IS centerpiece, so those who can keep up with technology changes will always be able to find a job. Salaries are a plus as well, ranging from $35,000 to $65,000, depending on your location and experience.
"It could be a springboard into upper management because you tend to see the big picture and deal with so many other users," says Mike Ewanowski, database administrator at the Data Resource Management Group, Technical Services, at Emory University in Atlanta.
"In a small organization, you tend to have people who are knowledgeable in a variety of areas," Martinez says. "You have to wear different hats, do different functions, as well as deal with end-user problems. The path from applications programmer to database administration to getting into the operating systems was a natural opportunity."
Unfortunately, many of these activities are transparent to business users and managers. They see the applications but don't spend much time thinking about what will keep the database that feeds them in good repair.
But that could be changing, as DB2 shops implement joint application development techniques that bring database administrators directly into the applications development loop, along with systems analysts and end users.
Therein lies the job's appeal: It offers constant technical challenges as well as a bird's-eye view into the organization.
"You're always in on the big picture," Cumberland says. "There's always something new and always a different challenge. You have a new set of problems with every system you design, and you have to be able to anticipate them."
Most database administration managers say they are looking for a candidate with three to five years of experience in programming and systems analysis. A stint as a database analyst, a more task-oriented position, is usually a prerequisite for administration.
Knowledge of systems software is a plus, as is experience with a relational database on the mainframe or the PC.
David Wollenberg, technical support manager at Bloomington, III. based Eureka Co., a vacuum cleaner maker, says learning PC-based relational databases "could add a lot of years to your career."
Even though Eureka is a Unisys Corp. shop running a hierarchical database, Wollenberg looks for relational experience when hiring
A bachelor's degree in computer science or IS is usually required, although Wollenberg says he doesn't believe one is necessary. "I'm looking for a tech-head," he says. "I'll ask a lot of technical questions."
Ewanowski says a business degree is also a good start because it provides background into business functions and how an organization is run, and Rannigan recommends "any kind of course or curriculum that focuses on problem-solving ability, from math to philosophy."
EXPERIENCE: Three to five years In programming, systems analysis. Database analysis ts also usually a prerequisite of database administration.
EDUCATION: Bachelor's degree in computer science or IS. Business background a plus.
SKILLS: Knowledge oF system software needed. Relational database experience on a mainframe or a PC is required. Problem solving ability is also a plus.