Case studies: IT systems analyst: Darryl

Darryl is responsible for the purchasing and distribution of IT equipment onsite and ensuring the old equipment is either redistibuted or environmentally disposed of.

My first experience of working in the IT sector was a result of studying for a four year sandwich degree in computer studies. This included an industrial placement in year 3, when I undertook a role as a systems coordinator. In this role I was responsible for the IT support of 20 employees. I was also responsible for purchasing new IT equipment when necessary and setting it up for the end users.

My biggest project whilst on placement was to oversee the office move in March 2005, arranging with contractors to install new cables/sockets, as well as ensuring that the movement of IT and telecom equipment was carried out properly. The move was deemed a success and the company lost no downtime as a result of the office move in terms of data and communications.
 
After graduating from university in June 2006, I took up employment with a waste management company as an IT technician. I was responsible for first line user support in the head office as well as seven other sites. I am always very keen to develop my skills and during this time I studied for and passed a Microsoft Certified Professional exam in supporting users in a Windows XP environment.

In June 2007 I was ready for a new challenge in my career. I started looking for a role where I could specialise more in infrastructure and networking, which is where my strongest skills lie within IT. A suitable role came up a month later as an IT systems analyst with a packaging company, where I currently work.

I’m responsible for the purchasing and distribution of IT equipment onsite and ensuring the old equipment is either redistributed or environmentally disposed of. Overall, my tasks are very hands-on and range from basic tasks, such as fixing printers and replacing peripherals, to more technical tasks, such as installing network switches and setting up wireless access points.
In the future I’d like to focus more heavily in the infrastructure side of IT, with a view to becoming an IT architect or a consultant in 10-15 years' time. I'd like a role where I can have my own clientele and be able to assist them on IT matters in their businesses. I particularly enjoy liaising with end users with regard to IT requirements and the rapport I build up with them. Suppliers definitely make my work much easier and more enjoyable.