Under the digital and technical dominance of today’s global business landscape, Information Technology (IT) and Information Systems (IS) have become integral to the success of modern organizations. While both fields are closely related and often work hand-in-hand, they have distinct focuses, roles, and career paths. On one end of the spectrum, IT generally revolves around the technical infrastructure, such as hardware, software, and networks. Conversely, IS focuses more on how these technologies are used to manage and analyze data for making business decisions.
Table of Contents
- What is Information Technology?
- What is Information Systems?
- Key Differences Between IT and IS
- Choosing Between IT and IS Fields
- Career Opportunities and Salaries
- Unlock a Career in Tech
If you’re considering a career in either Information Technology vs. Information Systems, understanding the key differences between these two fields can help you choose the right path for you. We’ll explore their definitions, the roles professionals play in each, and the wide range of career opportunities available. Additionally, we’ll offer guidance on how to choose between IT and IS based on your personal interests, skills, and long-term career goals.
Are you interested in the technical, hands-on aspects of technology? If so, you may find IT to be your ideal path. Alternatively, if you’re more inclined toward analyzing data and using technology to solve business challenges, you may find a better fit in the IS field. Read on as we clarify the distinctions so you can make an informed decision about your future education and career.
What is Information Technology?
Information Technology (IT) refers to the use of computers, networking, storage, and other physical devices and infrastructure to create, process, store, secure, and exchange all forms of electronic data. IT plays a critical role in allowing organizations to function efficiently and securely. Its scope encompasses the technical components that support day-to-day business operations, ensuring that technology systems are stable, reliable, and up-to-date.
IT professionals focus on managing and supporting the hardware, software, and networks that organizations depend on. This can include tasks like setting up and maintaining servers, implementing security protocols to protect sensitive information, and providing technical support to employees. IT roles are often geared toward system administration, network security, and troubleshooting technical issues, ensuring that all technological components run smoothly.
Unlike the broader field of information systems, IT has a particular technical focus, dealing with the hands-on implementation, maintenance, and security of technology systems. IT professionals play a pivotal role in ensuring that an organization’s technological infrastructure is resilient, secure, and optimized for performance. The field is well suited for anyone with strong technical skills and an interest in the practical aspects of technology.
What is Information Systems?
Information Systems (IS) is the study of how people, technology, and processes work together to collect, process, and store information that supports decision-making and control within an organization. Unlike IT, which focuses more on the technical side, IS is concerned with how technology is used to reach strategic business goals. It involves designing, managing, and optimizing systems that help organizations function efficiently and make data-driven decisions.
IS professionals focus on integrating IT solutions to meet specific business needs, requiring an understanding of both technology and business processes. It’s their responsibility to ensure that the technology systems in place align with organizational aims, such as increased operational efficiency or improved communication across departments. In many ways, IS bridges the gap between IT and business operations, making it an essential component for organizations that want to leverage technology to improve overall performance.
Compared to IT, IS has a broader scope, as it encompasses the design and management of entire systems that support organizational goals. This includes areas like business intelligence, data management, and information strategy. IS professionals often work on high-level planning and strategy, helping businesses make the most of their technology investments while aligning systems with business operations and big-picture objectives.
Key Differences Between IT and IS
Focus and Scope
The primary difference between Information Technology and Information Systems lies in their focus and scope. The IT specialty emphasizes implementation, maintenance, and security of hardware, software, and networks. IT professionals are responsible for the technical infrastructure of an organization, making sure systems function smoothly and as intended. They typically serve in roles such as system administrators, network engineers, and cybersecurity professionals. The work itself tends to involve hands-on tasks related to troubleshooting, technical support, and managing complex systems to ensure operational reliability.
On the other hand, IS focuses on the integration of technology and business processes to support organizational goals. IS professionals work at the intersection of technology and business, ensuring that IT solutions align with strategic objectives and improve overall business performance. They’re more likely to hold positions like systems analysts, database managers, or information strategists, in which they focus on how to optimize the use of technology to inform decision-making, streamline processes, support long-term goals, and improve overall business performance. To put it simply, IT designs and implements the technical infrastructure, while IS is concerned with how that infrastructure can be leveraged to meet business needs and make tactical gains.
Roles and Responsibilities
The roles and responsibilities of IT professionals are heavily focused on the implementation, maintenance, security, and overall management of IT infrastructure to ensure that the technology backbone of an organization runs smoothly and dependably. Common IT positions include:
- Network Administrator: Responsible for managing and maintaining network systems.
- IT Support Specialist: Handling troubleshooting and technical support for both individual employees and across departments.
- Cybersecurity Analyst: Leverages specialized skill set, including penetration testing, knowledge of computing systems, and scripting to protect systems from security breaches.
- Systems Administrator: Ensures the proper functioning of computer systems and servers.
By contrast, IS professionals work toward integrating technology into business operations to enhance organizational performance. Their responsibilities emphasize the design and management of systems that support decision-making and align with broader business strategies, focusing more on how technology can be used to improve business outcomes rather than on the technical infrastructure itself. Common IS roles include:
- Systems Analyst: Evaluates and improves IT systems to meet business needs.
- Business Analyst: Bridges the gap between IT and business by ensuring that technology solutions address and fulfill business objectives.
- Database Manager: Oversees the management and organization of data for strategic use.
- IT Project Manager: Leads projects that implement and optimize technology solutions.
Educational Pathways
IT degree programs focus on building the skills needed for managing and maintaining technology infrastructure. As a student in an IT program, you’ll study subjects such as programming, networking, cybersecurity, and systems management. IT degrees emphasize hands-on learning, often including labs and technical projects that help prepare students for real-world scenarios. In addition to coursework, IT degrees frequently incorporate industry-recognized certifications like CompTIA A+, Network+, or Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), which bolster your credentials and marketability in roles related to network administration, technical support, and cybersecurity.
With more conceptual and theoretical emphasis, IS degree programs combine technical foundational principles with a focus on business processes and strategy. You’ll learn about information systems design, data management, and business analysis while also gaining a solid basis in project management and decision-making frameworks. IS programs often include courses in business administration, covering areas such as finance, marketing, and operations, alongside technology-specific subjects. The broader curriculum prepares you to understand both the technological and strategic needs of an organization, equipping you for roles that bridge IT and business acumen, such as systems analysis, business analysis, or IT project management.
Choosing Between IT and IS Fields
Career Goals
It’s important to consider your long-term goals and aspirations when making a choice between a career in Information Technology or Information Systems. For example, if you want to do hands-on technical work such as managing networks, troubleshooting systems, and ensuring cybersecurity on a daily basis, a career in IT can be engaging and rewarding. This specialty is ideal for those who enjoy problem-solving and playing a key role in maintaining the systems that keep your organization running smoothly.
On the other hand, if you are drawn to a discipline that blends technical expertise with business strategy and sensibility, IS might be the right field for you. It’s an ideal career path for individuals who are fascinated by how technology can drive business success, enjoy deep analysis of systems and processes, and prefer leadership or project management responsibilities to hands-on technical work.
Interest in Technology vs. Business
Aligning your degree with your personal interests makes it more likely that you’ll enjoy the work and thrive both academically and in your future career. If you’re passionate about understanding, learning, and working directly with technical systems—including the latest equipment and devices—an IT degree could be the perfect fit. IT professionals explore the technical aspects of computer systems, networks, and software. Because they’re on the front lines of configuring and implementing systems that help businesses run, IT professionals often get to use and find applications for exciting new technologies.
Conversely, if your interest in technology extends to the ways complex systems are leveraged to reach business goals, optimize processes, and maximize efficiency, pursuing a degree in IS can be a stimulating career path. Think about IT as the practical use of technology and IS as the strategic use.
Career Opportunities and Salaries
IT Careers
Earning a degree in Information Technology can unlock a range of career opportunities that are both financially rewarding and mentally stimulating. Here are a few roles that allow you to work directly with technology, solve complex problems, and stay at the forefront of technological advancements:
- Network Administrator: Manages and supports an organization’s network infrastructure, ensuring connectivity and security.
- Median salary: $95,360 annually (source: Bureau of Labor Statistics 2024).
- Cybersecurity Analyst: Protects an organization’s data and systems from cyber threats.
- Median salary: $120,360 annually (source: Bureau of Labor Statistics 2024).
IS Careers
A degree in Information Systems can also open doors to financially fulfilling, intellectually engaging careers. IS roles can provide a dynamic work environment where you can apply both technical and business skills, playing a vital role in your organization’s success. Here are a few IS career paths to consider:
- Systems Analyst: Analyzes and designs information systems to meet business needs.
- Median salary: $103,800 annually (source: Bureau of Labor Statistics 2024).
- IT Project Manager: Oversees technology projects, ensuring they meet business goals and are completed on time and within budget.
- Average salary: $94,555 annually (source: Payscale 2024).
Unlock a Career in Tech, Begin Your Journey at National University
The fields of Information Technology (IT) and Information Systems (IS) offer forward-thinking professionals exciting career paths and opportunities to become an indispensable component of an organization’s broader technical operation. If you’re considering pursuing a degree in tech, remember that the best choice for you depends on your individual goals, interests, and career aspirations.
While IT professionals focus on the technical aspects of computer systems, networks, and software, IS professionals bridge the gap between technology and business strategy. Whether you’re passionate about working in a hands-on capacity with new and emerging technology or are dedicated to helping achieve business success with technology solutions, National University has the academic program for you.
As you embark on your educational and occupational journeys, take the time to assess your long-term career plans carefully and seek advice from academic advisors or professionals in the field for more guidance. A rewarding and fulfilling career in technology is right around the corner!
Learn more about our degree programs in engineering and technology, including Bachelor of Science in Information Systems (BSIS) and Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT).
This content has been reviewed and approved by the National University Editorial Advisory Board. Learn more about our editorial process.