Database Administrator

Database Administrator

The database administrator (DBA) is responsible for the databases and data warehouses of an organization —a very sensitive and powerful position. Since access to information often connotes power, this person must be astute not only technologically but politically as well. He or she must evaluate reque sts for access to data from managers to determine who has a real “need to know.” The DBA is responsible for developing or acquiring database applications and must carefully

PART 1 THE INFORMATION AGE

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS and ABILITIES:

Proven knowledge in advanced operating and personal computer systems. Must have a thorough understanding in multiple hardware and software platforms, products, and applications. Proven knowledge in technical diagnostic and analytical tools. Understanding of project management concepts and techniques required. Demonstrated analytical and problem solving skills. Experience in applications development, test design, and testing. Thorough understanding of healthcare cost drivers, data connections, SAS, and SQL databases. Knowledge of information technology project management and life cycle methodologies. Highly advanced analytical and organizational skills. Knowledge of commercial software packages including Windows 2000, Word, Excel, Access, Crystal Reports, SQL. Strong relationship management capabilities with both internal and external constituents. Strong verbal and written communication skills, including presentation experience. Knowledge of quality assurance programs. Skill in balancing resources, needs, and technology. Ability to formulate scope and objectives based on business requirements. Ability to monitor project status and handle multiple tasks. Ability to communicate at various levels within the organization and with customers. Ability to work in a team environment, handle multiple tasks, and be flexible in taking on various projects. Ability to deal responsibly with confidential information.

consider how data will be used. In addition, the DBA must adhere to federal, state, and corporate regulations to protect the privacy of customers and employees.

A growing number of organizations link their databases to the Web for use by employees, business partners, and consumers. Attacks on corporate databases by hackers and computer viruses have made the DBA’s job more difficult. In addition to optimizing databases and developing data management applications, this person must oversee the planning and imple- mentation of sophisticated security measures to block unauthorized access but at the same time to allow easy and timely access to authorized users. The DBA is also highly involved in the implementation of SCM systems, because they access corporate databases.

An excerpt from a help wanted ad for a database administrator

The Database Administrator will function as a high-level technician working on a large and complex multi RDMS environment. As a member of a team of DBAs, the candidate will be responsible for:

Scripting, design/analysis, installation, monitoring, maintaining, troubleshooting, and tuning DB2 UDB databases for customers remotely and on-site. Project management responsibilities including identifying the scope of assigned projects, generating. solutions to technical issues, reporting analysis and results, and providing deliverables in a timely and efficient manner. Adapting new software aids and programming techniques as they are acquired or adopted within IT. Researching and providing recommendations in support of procurement and development of database software and related tools.

Must be self-motivated, a team player, and have a strong track record in customer satisfaction; strong analysis/design capabilities along with demonstrated written/oral communication skills; must have a propensity for problem solving; and demonstrated experience with successful system and project implementations.

Chapter 1 Business Information Systems: An Overview □ 27 Chapter 1 Business Information Systems: An Overview □ 27

An excerpt from a help wanted ad for a network administrator

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

Install, configure, and maintain the company's network. Maintain user account information including e-mail, rights, security, and system groups. Perform system backups and data recovery. Monitor system configuration to ensure data integrity.

Implement, maintain, and troubleshoot network and server security, including file/folder permissions and enterprise anti-virus system. Establish and maintain server-based storage for user data and application files. Evaluation and installation of new hardware and software. Consult with and advise management on operational system problems. Perform application support functions for various accounting software (ProFx, CCH, time & billing). Provide accounting software training support to accounting professionals. Resolve network connectivity issues.

MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS:

Bachelor‘s degree in a computer-related discipline or accounting. Minimum 3 years current and relevant experience.

Current working knowledge of computer networks. Current working knowledge of accounting software applications (i.e., ProFx, CCH, time & billing systems). Current extensive knowledge of routers, switches, servers, TCP/IP & VPN. Windows 2000 Active Directory administration skills (users, groups, printers, NTFS, shares, etc.). Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Ability to manage multiple tasks and work in a fast-paced, highly professional team environment.

The network administrator is responsible for acquiring, implement- Network administrators plan and ing, managing, maintaining, and troubleshooting local area networks

supervise the organization‘s local area networks and their

throughout the organization and their interfaces with the wide area connections to the Internet and

networks such as the Internet. He or she is also often involved in selecting other external networks. and implementing network security measures such as firewalls and access codes.