What Is a Systems Analyst and How to Become One
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How to Become a Systems Analyst
Those interested in a career as a system analyst need an education in computer science一at least a bachelor’s degree, although a master’s degree is becoming a common requirement. Even more important is the technical knowledge of enterprise solutions, project management, and data management. As a systems analyst, you are more than an IT technician. You are also in charge of the entire workflow of the department, so management experience is a must. On-the-job training in lower level roles is important in this career. Private companies, government organizations, and health care services often hire system analysts.
What Is a Systems Analyst?
The job of a systems analyst is to ensure that a business and its employees use their computer technology properly. As a systems analyst, you manage the entire computer system within the organization. Duties include studying and analyzing these computer systems and designing information systems. You must understand the needs of the business so you can design computer systems based on the organization’s specific requirements. Other job responsibilities include performing cost-benefit analysis, troubleshooting IT issues, training end users, and choosing the right software for company goals.
What Makes a Good Systems Analyst?
The main requirements for a systems analyst are a solid working knowledge of computer systems and of information technology. Strong communication skills are also a must. It is a management position, so you must be comfortable and capable of efficiently managing other people. You design work plans and monitor the workflow of these IT workers. Other qualifications include critical thinking and complex problem-solving skills. You must think creatively to solve problems with unique solutions. Most system analysts complete an undergraduate or graduate education in computer science.
Is System Analyst a Good Job?
System analyst is a good position for those with interest in computer science, information technology, and management. However, the career often consists of long hours and high-stress situations. You work closely with a team to efficiently solve problems with the computer systems of large organizations. Jobs are available in most industries with private companies, government organizations, and in health care facilities.
Systems Analyst Job Description Sample
With this Systems Analyst job description sample, you can get a good idea of what employers are looking for when hiring for this position. Remember, every employer is different and each will have unique qualifications when they hire for a Systems Analyst role.
Job Summary
Our organization is seeking a systems analyst to join our team. In this role, you will integrate information into our existing business and information technology (IT) systems to improve the workflow of our company and improve its overall communication and work processes. You must install, test, and maintain these systems and ensure they are kept up to date. You should stay informed of the latest technological trends, demonstrate strong business acuity, and be well-versed in computer programing languages and software.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Discuss workflow processes and procedures with upper management
- Determine where improvements in the workflow and computer systems can be made
- Develop and implement business and computer systems solutions
- Work with business management to decide the role and purpose of IT systems
- Increase business systems efficiency
- Learn and read technical materials to develop and design new programs that fit a client's needs
- Build, design, set up, fix and/or modify computer systems and hardware
- Test and maintain all workflow systems, analyzing and documenting results
- Present frequent progress reports
- Provide on-call support
Requirements and Qualifications
- Firm grasp of relevant computer systems
- Excellent analytical and critical thinking skills
- Solid understanding of business process mapping
- Technical proficiency
- Able to monitor and assess system performance
- High attention to detail and accuracy
- Strong independent worker
- Strong oral and written communication skills
- Expert problem solver and troubleshooter
- Efficient time management
- Works well under pressure
- Strong mathematical and engineering knowledge
- Bachelor’s degree in computer/information science or liberal arts degree with extensive experience in IT and/or computer programming
- Knowledge of Java, C++, SAP, and other development software
- Proficiency using database management system software and program testing software
- Previous work experience as a systems analyst
- A strong business sense with the ability to balance and merge company processes with IT systems
