System software administration SYSP

Installing, managing and maintaining operating systems, data management, office automation and utility software across various infrastructure environments.

Revision notes

Updates for SFIA 9

Theme(s) influencing the updates for this skill: Application of SFIA skills for cloud-based working, Making SFIA easier to consume (enhance readability/guidance/descriptions), Making SFIA easier to consume (new levels), Making SFIA easier to consume (updates to skill name/skill description).
Skill renamed to aid understanding of the scope of this skill
New level 2 added to support entry-level roles.
Readability improvements have been made to levels 3, 4, and 5.
You can move to SFIA 9 when you are ready - SFIA 8 skill descriptions will still be available to use.
Previous SFIA assessments or skills mapping are not impacted by this change.

Guidance notes

System software encompasses a wide range of software components that support the functioning and management of technology infrastructure, including operating systems, infrastructure software, data management products, office automation products, middleware and utility software. It may run in cloud, virtual or physical hardware environments and enables applications to run effectively.

Activities may include, but are not limited to:

monitoring and optimising the performance of system software
developing and maintaining diagnostic tools and procedures for system software troubleshooting and performance analysis
resolving service problems with system software components
evaluating, provisioning and testing new system software, including cloud based solutions
reviewing system software updates and upgrades
provisioning and testing system software updates and configurations
adhering to established safety, security and quality standards
managing system software in hybrid and multi-cloud environments.

Understanding the responsibility levels of this skill

Where lower levels are not defined...

Specific tasks and responsibilities are not defined because the skill requires a higher level of autonomy, influence, and complexity in decision-making than is typically expected at these levels. You can use the essence statements to understand the generic responsibilities associated with these levels.

Where higher levels are not defined...

Responsibilities and accountabilities are not defined because these higher levels involve strategic leadership and broader organisational influence that goes beyond the scope of this specific skill. See the essence statements.

Developing skills and demonstrating responsibilities related to this skill

The defined levels show the incremental progression in skills and responsibilities.

Where lower levels are not defined...

You can develop your knowledge and support others who do have responsibility in this area by:

Learning key concepts and principles related to this skill and its impact on your role
Performing related skills (see the related SFIA skills)
Supporting others who are performing higher level tasks and activities

Where higher levels are not defined...

You can progress by developing related skills which are better suited to higher levels of organisational leadership.

Click to learn why SFIA skills are not defined at all 7 levels.

Show/hide extra descriptions and levels.

Levels of responsibility for this skill

Level 1

Level 1 - Follow: Essence of the level: Performs routine tasks under close supervision, follows instructions, and requires guidance to complete their work. Learns and applies basic skills and knowledge.

System software administration: Level 2

Level 2 - Assist: Essence of the level: Provides assistance to others, works under routine supervision, and uses their discretion to address routine problems. Actively learns through training and on-the-job experiences.

Assists with system software administration tasks under routine supervision.

Supports the installation and configuration of system software.

Helps monitor system performance and resource usage.

Assists in documenting system software settings and updates.

System software administration: Level 3

Level 3 - Apply: Essence of the level: Performs varied tasks, sometimes complex and non-routine, using standard methods and procedures. Works under general direction, exercises discretion, and manages own work within deadlines. Proactively enhances skills and impact in the workplace.

Monitors operational systems for resource usage and failure rates, to inform and facilitate system software tuning.

Applies system software settings to optimise performance, enabling maximum throughput and efficient resource utilisation.

Installs and tests new versions of system software.

Assists in creating software implementation procedures, including fallback contingency plans.

System software administration: Level 4

Level 4 - Enable: Essence of the level: Performs diverse complex activities, supports and guides others, delegates tasks when appropriate, works autonomously under general direction, and contributes expertise to deliver team objectives.

Monitors system software metrics and adjusts configurations for optimum availability and performance.

Applies technical expertise to investigates and resolve complex system software issues, requesting action from supplier if required.

Analyses system software updates and determines which ones require actions.

Develops comprehensive software implementation procedures with robust contingency plans.

System software administration: Level 5

Level 5 - Ensure, advise: Essence of the level: Provides authoritative guidance in their field and works under broad direction. Accountable for delivering significant work outcomes, from analysis through execution to evaluation.

Ensures system software is provisioned and configured to support the achievement of service objectives.

Develops and maintains diagnostic tools and processes for troubleshooting and performance analysis.

Evaluates new system software and recommends adoption if appropriate. Plans the provisioning and testing of new versions of system software.

Ensures operational procedures and diagnostics for system software are current, accessible and well understood. Investigates and coordinates the resolution of potential and actual service problems.

Level 6

Level 6 - Initiate, influence: Essence of the level: Has significant organisational influence, makes high-level decisions, shapes policies, demonstrates leadership, promotes organisational collaboration, and accepts accountability in key areas.

Level 7

Level 7 - Set strategy, inspire, mobilise: Essence of the level: Operates at the highest organisational level, determines overall organisational vision and strategy, and assumes accountability for overall success.

New level Re-named Large change