EXPANDED SCOPE

FOR

DATA CONTROL SPECIALIST II PR 1,2,4

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SECURITY COORDINATOR OC 1,6,7,8

NETWORK COMMUNICATION MANAGER OC 2,6,7,9

PRINCIPAL OFFICE APPLICATIONS SPECIALIST PR 1,4,5,8,10

SENIOR OFFICE APPLICATIONS SPECIALIST OC & PR 1,4,5,8,10

1. PREPARING WRITTEN MATERIAL-These questions test for the ability to present information clearly and accurately, and to organize paragraphs logically and comprehensibly. For some questions, you will be given information in two or three sentences followed by four restatements of the information. You must then choose the best version. For other questions, you will be given paragraphs with their sentences out of order. You must then choose, from four suggestions, the best order for the sentences.

2. DATA PROCESSING CONCEPTS AND TERMINOLOGY-These questions are designed to test for knowledge of computer characteristics and operations that is relevant for computer programming and analysis. They may cover, but not necessarily be confined to, basic terminology of data processing, data entry, data access, and data communications; basic characteristics of storage media and data bases; types of data processing (e.g., time-sharing), the functions of operating systems, and hierarchies of computer memory.

3. DATA CENTER OPERATIONS-These questions test for knowledge of the principles and practices employed in planning, organizing and controlling the operating activities of a computer center. They cover such areas as: data center methods and procedures; identifying and resolving operational problems; coordinating and maintaining schedules for the utilization of equipment; and monitoring and controlling operating systems, equipment, and the physical environment in the computer center.

4. PRINCIPLES OF PROVIDING USER SUPPORT-These questions test for knowledge and skill in working in a user support situation. They cover such subjects as how to communicate effectively with users requesting help; how to deal with different types of situations; troubleshooting techniques; and how to gather, organize and make available technical information needed to provide support.

5. SUPERVISION-These questions test for knowledge of the principles and practices employed in planning, organizing, and controlling the activities of a work unit toward predetermined objectives. The concepts covered, usually in a situational question format, include such topics as assigning and reviewing work; evaluating performance; maintaining work standards; motivating and developing subordinates; implementing procedural change; increasing efficiency; and dealing with problems of absenteeism, morale, and discipline.

6. PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICES OF LAN ADMINISTRATION-These questions test for knowledge of procedures and terminology applicable to administering a local area network (LAN). They cover such subjects as installing, configuring and upgrading a network; establishing user accounts and assigning access rights; monitoring network performance and troubleshooting; dividing networks and linking to other networks; creating and documenting procedures for users; and establishing and maintaining network security. The questions are not specific to any particular LAN.

7. PRINCIPLES OF NETWORKED COMMUNICATIONS-These questions test for basic concepts and terminology of data communications. They cover such subjects as data communications, types of networks, modems, security, protocols, topologies, transmission media, wiring, installation and troubleshooting. The questions are general in scope and are not specific to any vendor or system.

8. TRAINING USERS OF COMPUTERS-These questions test for knowledge of techniques for using computers and approaches to training others to use them. They cover such subjects as use of computer hardware, software and applications; preparing and evaluating instruction materials; determining the level of trainees' knowledge and the use of computers to provide instruction and feedback. The questions on training depend upon good judgment and practical experience rather than knowledge of abstract principles.

9. SYSTEMS ANALYSIS AND DESIGN-These questions test for techniques and concepts of computer systems analysis and design. They cover such subjects as feasibility and applications studies, systems development tools and software, the systems life cycle, types of systems (e.g., client/server, Web-based), controls, and systems documentation, testing, and implementation.

10. ADMINISTRATIVE TECHNIQUES AND PRACTICES-These questions test for a knowledge of management techniques and practices used in directing or assisting in directing a program component or an organizational segment. Questions cover such areas as interpreting policies, making decisions based on the context of the position in the organization, coordinating programs or projects, communicating with employees or the public, planning employee training, and researching and evaluating areas of concern.

The New York State Department of Civil Service has not prepared a test guide for this examination. However, candidates may find information in the publication 'General Guide to Written Tests' helpful in preparing for this test. This publication is available on line at:https://www.cs.ny.gov/testing/testguides.cfm.

USE OF CALCULATORS IS ALLOWED