As a vital link between business and information technology, a systems analyst is responsible for studying an organization’s computer systems procedures and designing solutions to help the organization operate more effectively with improved information systems. Since businesses throughout the economy are depending more on information technology as the digital age rolls on, the demand for systems analysts will be critical to design and install new computer systems to carry out organization functions. In fact, employment of systems analysts is expected to grow much faster than average at the rapid rate of 25%, thus creating around 127,700 new jobs before 2022, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The following is a full job description for computer systems analysts to help determine if this is the ideal profession for your interests.
What Systems Analysts Do
Through conducting in-depth analysis on data trends, systems analysts utilize a variety of techniques to design computer systems to increase an organization’s performance and efficiency. With their expertise in information technology, systems analysts must work closely with computer programmers, engineers, and executives as part of the IT team when building computer systems to solve business problems. Systems analysts are responsible for researching emerging technologies, preparing an analysis of cost and benefits, brainstorming ways to revitalize existing computer systems, configuring new hardware, supervising the installation of new systems, conducting testing, and training system users. Some systems analysts specialize their skills by becoming systems designers, software quality assurance analysts, or programmer analysts.
Where Systems Analysts Find Employment
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are an estimated 520,600 systems analysts employed throughout the United States in various different industries. At this time, the most systems analysts are working in computer systems design services, finance/insurance corporations, corporate management, and state or local government agencies. While some analysts work directly for organizations, some are employed as consultants through information technology firms. Telecommuting is very common; however, most systems analysts still must travel to meet with clients and collaborate with others on complex projects. Many systems analysts work full-time during normal business hours, but around 25% work longer than the typical 40-hour work week.
How to Become a Systems Analyst
Due to the complexity of the profession, systems analysts must be highly trained with at least a bachelor’s degree in a computer-related field, such as computer science, information technology, computer programming, or management information systems. For more technically advanced projects, some employers will seek candidates who have a master’s degree or MBA with a specialization in information systems. Since technological advances are so rapid, systems analysts are often required to pursue continuing education to remain updated on the newest innovative solutions in the field. Therefore, many systems analysts seek certification through the Institute for the Certification of Computing Professionals as an Information Systems Analyst by passing a comprehensive three-hour examination.
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Overall, systems analysts work with internal and external clients to develop new information technology solutions to improve business productivity for success in today’s rapidly evolving competitive marketplace. As the U.S. News and World Report recognizes systems analysts for having the 2nd best technology job with strong growth prospects, it is strongly recommended that creative individuals with strong analytical skills and technical abilities consider becoming a systems analyst to build faster computer information systems for businesses.
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