Those who pursue careers in computing are considered to be highly paid. This is a growing field, as there is plenty of competition among those who pursue careers in computing, both within an organization and outside.

There are both advantages as well as certain disadvantages in a computing career.

Advantages of a Computing Career

A good remuneration package and competitive benefits - Most multinationals and blue chip companies invest heavily in their work force. They offer good remuneration packages for highly skilled and experienced computer professionals.

Opportunities for career advancement - Since computing skills and knowledge is constantly becoming obsolete, companies encourage their staff to gain higher qualifications and invest heavily in offering staff training locally and internationally.

There is constant demand for those who are skilled in computing all over the world - Those who are qualified and experienced in computing is highly sought after in all parts of the world. Companies are headhunting these experts globally.

Computing careers can be geared for the future - Unlike any other job, careers in computing is the future today, therefore even though technology becomes obsolete in the future, skills will never become obsolete due to on job training and international exposure. Professionals in the computing field are better geared to face the future.

Diversify or move on to another career - If you have had a career in computing and considering a job change, but hesitant to take the plunge feeling you are unskilled. This is something you should never worry about, you can change jobs, careers and move from one field to the other without thinking twice, as most jobs require professionals with computing backgrounds.

Job security - There is plenty of job security in this field. Unless the company goes bankrupt due to recession, it is unlikely that people in the computing field will ever lose their jobs.

Job satisfaction - Plenty of job satisfaction and career advancement. Companies offer annual pay rises, revise fringe benefits and encourage performance based bonuses.

Disadvantages of a Computing Career

Highly monotonous - Most often it is the same work that is done day in day out. There may be a variety and new projects may come in from time to time, but the work environment tends to be the same. You may find yourself constantly seated in front of the computer, with less interaction with other co-workers and clients.

High level of stress - Due to the deadlines and other on the job factors, those who are in the computing career are often faced with high work pressure. They are evenly compensated though.

Requires a high level of commitment and long hours of work - due to the nature of the work and business, computer professionals will find themselves working long hours to attend to various technical issues and to meet deadlines. There should be a high level of commitment to succeed. This is a disadvantage to those professionals who are family oriented and find themselves torn between career and family.

Mostly contracts offered / on contract basis - Most employment contracts are signed for fixed periods on a renewable basis. Companies prefer to hire most computer professionals as consultants than full time staff. The contract terminates once the consultancy is complete. Competition - There is plenty of competition in the computing sector. Most young graduates are majoring in computer related fields and gives those veterans a run for their money. These young graduates are armed with the most up to date and recent technological developments which most veterans would not even have heard of. This may give rise to fear of losing jobs, i.e. job security issues.

Constant need to be trained and qualified - Due to changes in technology and business concepts there is a growing need to learn and implement the latest technologies in the computing sector. Most often those who pursue careers in computing are expected to be conversant with the latest trends in technology.

Summery: This article lists out the advantages and disadvantages of a career in computing, giving a useful comparison for choosing your career path in this very popular field which has diversified into all avenues of the business world.