Computer Systems Analyst

What a Computer Systems Analyst Does

Computer systems analysts are responsible for using their information technology skills to help different businesses and organizations operate at maximum potential. These analysts, sometimes just called systems analysts, accomplish these goals through improving the company's prior existing computer systems, or by planning and developing new hardware systems and/or software programs that will help the company flourish. Systems analysts usually start an assignment by first consulting with the company's managers, discussing what the old systems flaws are and what the new system should do. The analysts will then formulate a plan and design (or perfect) systems that will help the company achieve their goals. For example, a large retail store or food corporation might want a systems analyst to create a new computerized inventory system. The analyst is responsible for specifying all the details from beginning to end when configuring this new system, including determining if the system is financially feasible, configuring all of its hardware and software components, creating flow charts describing the systems progress during the initial developmental stages and experimenting with the system repeatedly to ensure it works properly at the end. Analysts accomplish these goals by applying their knowledge in structured analysis, data modeling, information engineering, mathematical model building, sampling, and accounting principles.

How to Become a Computer Systems Analyst

Most employers prefer prospects that have at least a bachelor's degree in information science, computer science or a related subject. More technically advanced positions, like scientific research, may require a graduate degree and some prior experience in the subject before being considered for the position. For those pursuing the business side of the industry, a background in a business-related field such as accounting, management information systems, or even better, a master's in business administration (MBA) with a concentration in information systems, will be highly beneficial. The more scientifically-based organizations may require prospects to have gained an extensive knowledge in physical science, mathematics, and engineering. Knowing several computer languages will also prove beneficial when applying to these types of positions. Though employers look for prospects with a specialized degree, one can acquire a position as a systems analyst if they possess the proper technical skills and can prove that they not only have a broad knowledge of computer systems and technologies but also have strong problem-solving and analytical skills as well.

Career Outlook for Computer Systems Analysts

The career outlook for computer systems analysts looks promising, according to the U.S. Labor Bureau of Statistics. As companies increasingly adopt and incorporate advanced technologies to maintain all systems and operations, an increasing demand for workers who know how to configure these technological systems will be needed. Employment opportunities should increase 20 percent during the 2008-18 decade, the Bureau predicts. The Bureau also says to be on the lookout for increasing career opportunities in the healthcare industry. As the adoption of e-prescribing and the shift from paper to electronic health records begin to take flight, there will also be a greater need for systems analysts to create programs that can operate these functions smoothly. The Bureau stresses, however, that it is important to note that just like many information technology jobs, employment opportunity growth may be affected if certain companies decide to employ foreign systems analysts. These overseas employees provide the same set of skills but demand lower wages. However, this is less likely to happen to systems analysts compared to all other IT jobs. According to the Bureau, the median annual wages for Computer Systems Analysts were $75,500 in May 2008 (the most recent statistics available). That same year, systems analysts held about 532,200 jobs, the largest concentrations in the following areas: professional and commercial equipment and supplies merchant wholesalers, computer systems design and related services, data processing, hosting, and related services, management of companies and enterprises, and insurance carriers.