Capacity and Performance Analyst

What is it?

A Capacity and performance Analyst works with the information technology capabilities and demands of an organization to determine whether they are sufficient for current and future data needs.  They work hands-on with the computer systems and networks themselves to perform testing of speed and ability to handle large and quick bundles of information.

How is IT involved?

A Capacity and Performance Analyst is dependent on Information Technology to do every aspect of their job.  To properly monitor and calculate data capabilities, as well as analyse performance of networks, strong computer and programming skills are needed, and a good communications background is necessary to inform clients and management about changes that need to be made to infrastructure, or at a systems-level.

Where can I see it?

A capacity and performance Analyst works behind the scenes for the most part, but their efforts are visible when a switch over to a new piece of software or hardware in an entire company is executed as flawlessly as possible.

A good example of capacity and performance analysis is the Y2K crisis.  Analysts looked at current computers, and found flaws within their design that might make them unable to operate past a certain date.  Research and programming work were done to implement preventative changes to many computer systems so that no discernable effects were had, and what could have been a major crisis turned in to a minor inconvenience for most people involved.

How can I be a part of it?

A Capacity and Performance analyst works most frequently in the realm of software and hardware technical requirements and capabilities.  A strong knowledge of programming, systems interaction and networks are also key parts of the responsibility of a Capacity and performance Analyst.

What else might I like?

Capacity and Performance Analysts work very closely with Technical Architects, Data Network Designers, System Analysts and the management of the organization

Where can I find out more?

Wikipedia:  Capacity Management

Wikipedia:  Profiling (Computer Programming)