The Business Systems Professional

Definition

A business systems professional is an experienced practitioner, educated and trained in business systems methodology, computer technology, and management theory, who solves business problems and responds to new management programs. The business systems professional may be engaged in research and teach designated areas of knowledge.

Statement of Responsibilities

In developing the following statement of responsibilities of the business systems professional, the Board of Directors of the Association for Systems Management made every effort to recognize the continuing growth and evolution of the business systems profession and to present a concise expression of the broad concepts utilized by the business systems function. This statement was approved by the Board of Directors in May 1981. Realizing that such a statement is dynamic, the Board also approved a new definition of the business systems professional in April 1987.

A business systems professional meets the following criteria:

1. Is engaged in a full-time occupation in the business systems profession.
2. Has a strong motivation and a continuing commitment to the profession.
3. Possesses a specialized body of knowledge and skills that are acquired during a prolonged period of education, training, and practice.
4. Is knowledeable and maintains competency through continuing education and training in the areas of: business systems theory; analysis, design and implementing state of art techniques; project management; computer hardware and software, security, and controls; theory of organizational behavior and decision making; and interpersonal skills.
5. Demonstrates a service orientation towards a client. The professional utilizes the specialized areas of knowledge for the benefit of the client and does so in the absence of self interest. The relationship between the two should be one of mutual trust.
6. Adheres to a code of ethics that guide his or her conduct in professional practice. ASM as well as other organizations have established such standards of professional conduct.
7. Undertakes only such work as that professional is competent to perform by virtue of his or her training and experience.