Rating executive status

Press, 1 July 1986, Page 31

Rating executive status

BARRY KNIGHT

The growing importance of data processing functions means companies and organisations must position their data processing managers within the executive team.

Effective computerisation will have a major impact on the business success of virtually every company within the next decade, and gone are the days when the D:P. role can continue to be “dumped” on reluctant company accountants, secretaries or whatever.

. Companies which recognise now, the importance of correctly positioning data processing managers within the top levels of their management structure can only benefit accordingly.

On the other hand, those that continue to regard this function as a necessary evil, something to be kept at arm’s length from the executive team, can ultimately only suffer in terms of over-all competitiveness and profitability. Companies, or organisations with a main frame, super-mini or mini-com-puter installation must accord the data processing manager executive status, with reporting responsibility to the managing director/general manager —- not to the administration manager or accountant. In recognising the status of the D.P. role, companies must ensure appointments to this position can competently handle the executive function.

If your current D.P. manager is not of executive capability, do something about it now.

It is worth noting that the Christchurch data processing scene is considered a "source” area for quality D.P. candidates — recognised as it is both nationally and internationally for a high level of technical expertise and performance in data processing.

The D.P. management responsibility is not something to be bought cheaply — as with all executive team ratings, it must be rewarded with an appropriate package.

Is your organisation according the data processing manager due recognition?