Implementation specialists help clients with new software.
Software engineers write new programs to help employees do their work more efficiently, but the software engineers do not teach people to use the new program. That is the job of the implementation specialist. As one recent job posting for an implementation specialist noted, "You will be acting as the face of [the software maker] and interfacing directly with customers, understanding their needs and configuring the software to meet them."
Responsibilities
An implementation specialist becomes an expert on the software of a particular technology company. After the software engineers create a new program, the implementation specialist runs usability tests to make sure that others who use the program will not become confused or encounter problems. The implementation specialist also creates a handbook and an online help section to accompany the software. When a new client purchases the software, the implementation specialist helps the client install the software and teaches key employees use it. Throughout the time that the client uses the software, they may call the implementation specialist for technical support.
Time Commitment
Many implementation specialists do not work regular office hours. In a larger company with more than one implementation specialist, each particular employee may work early or late shifts to answer questions from clients, especially in other time zones. They may work longer-than-normal hours while they test a new product and prepare for it for launch. Many implementation specialists take overnight trips to visit new clients and help them to install the software.
Qualifications
Most implementation specialists have a bachelor's degree in education, computer science or a related field. They must have experience working with computer hardware or software.
Other Considerations
Implementation specialists must have excellent communication skills---interpersonal, written and public speaking. They must provide superior customer service to internal and external clients. They must be strong leaders who are able to solve problems creatively and efficiently. They must be comfortable using technology and be able to explain it to others. They must pay attention to detail as they monitor data and analyze reports. They should also be able to manage their time well and handle multiple projects simultaneously.
Salary and Job Outlook
The U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics does not keep separate data on implementation specialists, but it reports that the more general category of computer software engineers was expected to grow more than 20 percent between 2008 and 2018, which is faster than the average for all career specialties. The website Pay Scale reports as of 2010, implementation specialists make between $36,085 and $49,991.
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