Systems Analyst

What You Do

As a systems analyst, you are responsible for:

• translating functional requirements into systems designs,
• designing computer information systems,
• creating models of computer systems that developers use to build them,
• modifying systems to improve production or work flow, and
• expanding computer systems already in use.

As a systems analyst you will use your knowledge and skills to solve computer problems and ensure that computer technology meets the specific needs of an organization.

Job stream: Analysis Design

Sample Titles:

• Systems Analyst
• Applications Analyst
• Computer Analyst
• User Support Analyst - Computer Systems
• Computer Graphics Specialist
• Electronic Data Processing (EDP) Analyst

Who You Do It For

Systems analyst positions cross a broad spectrum of industries and can be found in:

• computer consulting firms,
• telecommunication companies,
• financial institutions,
• aerospace companies,
• government departments, and
• computer systems units in the computer and data processing services industry.

How You Do It

Your first task as a systems analyst begins by identifying the information or computer needs of a client. To do this you need to:

• research the systems and procedures an organization uses and decide if and how computers or computer applications could be used to improve them,
• interview and consult with the management and staff of an organization, and
• define the goals and major functions of a system so that it can be separated into programmable procedures.

Once completed, you would then draw up diagrams and flow charts, which clearly explain:

• what information is to be collected,
• how the information is to be processed, and
• the type and frequency of the reports to be produced.

In addition, you may be required to prepare cost-benefit or return-on-investment analyses to assist management in determining whether implementing the proposed system will be financially feasible.

Once your client has approved the proposed plan, you will determine what computer hardware and software will be needed to set up the system. You will also provide the programmer with the specifications to follow and work with them to “debug” or eliminate errors from the system.

As a systems analyst, if any forms are required to collect data and distribute information you will be involved in their definition and design.

In some organizations a single worker is called a programmer-analyst and is responsible for both the systems analysis and the programming. This trend has grown with increased use of Computer Aided Software Engineering (CASE) tools and object-oriented programming languages, which tightly link the analysis and programming functions.

Some CASE tools even generate the actual executable code, which the programmer-analyst then tests and refines.

Once the system is in operation, you could be involved in the training of its users.

Challenges

You can expect the unexpected on daily basis in your position as systems analyst. Because of the nature of their work, systems analysts may need to develop solutions for information systems that are not compatible with one another. They must develop creative ways to link them, so that users can access information from multiple systems simultaneously.

Skills

• gather and interpret relevant data and information,
• use, consolidate and synthesize information,
• define and identify problems,
• interview and listen to people,
• communicate clear and consistent information,
• think analytically and creatively problem solve,
• make effective decisions under pressure,
• explain complex information simply and accurately, and
• learn new technologies quickly.

Working Conditions

Systems analysts work in offices in comfortable surroundings. They usually work about 40 hours a week; however, when there are deadlines overtime is necessary.

Like other workers who spend their time in front of a computer terminal, systems analysts are susceptible to eyestrain, back discomfort and hand and wrist problems.

What the Future Holds

As more organizations continue to adapt and integrate new technologies into their operations, systems analyst positions are expected to be one of the fastest growing occupations through to the year 2006. Self-employment, contract and consulting work are options for employment.

Skill Levels

Entry Level Systems Analyst

Working under the supervision of a more senior informatics staff member, your job as a junior systems analyst could require you to do any of the following:

• investigate requirements, information flow, processes, etc.,
• produce documentation specifying logical information flows and processes,
• perform technical calculations for input to project budgets and monitor budget,
• convert limited parts of a logical specification into a physical design, and
• construct, interpret and execute test plans of a limited scope.

Full Working Systems Analyst

At this level, you will be performing the job as systems analyst without supervision and you may be responsible for the supervision of other staff on a project. In addition you may be responsible for small projects or portions of medium-large projects and you may have to:

• specify logical information flow, processes, data objects and dialogues,
• produce technical and descriptive documentation,
• devise, construct and interpret test plans and ensure proper execution,
• carry out investigative assignments on requirements, information flow, etc.,
• prepare estimates, monitor budgets and report constraints,
• assist with service level agreements and business plans,
• communicate with other informatics specialists, and
• train and guide less experienced colleagues and carry out training.

Intermediate System Analyst

As the intermediate systems analyst, you will be expected to supervise staff. You may also be required to:

• supervise performance of team players in reaching objectives,
• plan and schedule small work teams, prepare projects less than 3 person-months in size,
• develop service level agreements and business plans with clients,
• devise outlines or models of systems solutions,
• assist in managing impact of information systems change on business,
• review contractor and vendor deliverables,
• provide functional direction to operations, and
• train, discipline and appraise staff.

Senior Systems Analyst

As the senior systems analyst you will most likely be involved in planning, conducting and supervising complex informatics assignments. You will also be involved in designing and applying new methods and procedures and supervising staff. Your job could also require you to:

• plan and manage multiple projects,
• lead systems implementation throughout systems life cycle,
• manage and maintain operations of mission-critical systems,
• identify business improvements and information systems solutions,
• manage impact of information systems change on business,
• prepare language for and negotiate contracts,
• prepare and monitor budgets and report constraints and considerations,
• train, discipline and appraise staff,
• review contractor and vendor deliverables,
• guide senior management toward change and balanced system solutions.

Salary Range

$53,000 - $81,250

Education and Training

Junior Systems Analyst

Education requirements vary depending on an employer’s needs. In general, you need a university degree or college diploma with 0-2 years experience in the IT industry and specific job experience in this stream. Specialization in business, scientific, engineering or microcomputer applications coupled with computer knowledge are considered assets.

Full Working Systems Analyst

This stream requires 3-5 years experience in the IT industry and specific job experience in addition to a university degree or college diploma.

Intermediate Systems Analyst

This stream requires 3-5 years experience in the IT industry and specific job experience in addition to a university or college diploma.

Senior Systems Analyst

This stream requires 6-8 years or more experience in the IT industry and specific job experience as well as a university or college diploma.