Computer Operators
Computer operators typically process the programs created by the computer programmers. Computer operators are sometimes responsible for collating and distributing reports to the correct personnel within the company. Most computer operators process programs by taking options from menu programs written by the computer programmers. They are usually responsible for keeping paper and forms loaded on the appropriate printers in the computer room.
The appearance of menus varies depending upon the programming language or software application the menu was written in.
An example of a menu (called switchboard) written in Access is shown below. Access is a database management system software package from the Microsoft Office suite. On the menu below, you click the desired option.
An example of a menu written in Control Language (CL) is shown below. Control Language is used on the AS/400 Midrange System. This same menu could have been written in COBOL or RPG on the AS/400. On the menu below, you type in the number of the desired option.
For more information about computer operators, you can select the following links.