Systems Analyst

Systems Analyst Job Description

Business leaders rely on systems analysts to make thoroughly researched decisions to determine the right upgrades to the organization's computer system. They are also generally responsible for researching IT trends, designing and implementing tailored information technology solutions, increasing the availability of specialized hardware, software systems, and online tools, running system testing programs, configuring operating systems, and conducting training sessions for the company's end users.  

Computer systems analysts fulfill a variety of tasks necessary for the functioning of an organization. To this end, they conduct systems analysis to create a comprehensive understanding of an organization's current systems and their capabilities. Computer system analysts will spend much of their time studying the computers and systems used to perform the tasks required by an IT professional.     

Systems analyst duties include exploring the latest database and computer systems design technologies to improve infrastructure so that employees and external clients can access the systems efficiently. Many analysts also specialize in other areas such as database management, database security, data protection, and information security to meet customer needs.  

Computer systems analysts must understand all IT aspects of the organization and the business administration side of the operation. Systems analysts of enterprise systems learn about new and innovative technologies to improve business efficiency and help their companies stay competitive in the market. They look forward to solving problems and working with different stakeholders to meet business needs. This role requires a high level of technical knowledge and a strong understanding of management for business systems. Qualified candidates for these positions will also have working knowledge of different programming languages and strong analytical and project management skills.  

Computer systems analysts analyze the requirements, procedures, and problems of users in order to automate and improve existing systems. The computer systems analyst job description includes analyzing, testing, monitoring, and maintaining computer programs and systems, including coordinating the installation of computers, programs, and systems, and configuring operating systems.

One of the job duties of many analysts is to work with management and end users to gain a better understanding of how current systems could work better. They monitor how new system requirements and functionalities fit into the entire business process. Business systems analysts oversee business systems when analyzing information and data and identifying where improvements can be made in terms of performance, reliability, security, and other aspects of the system. Computer systems analysts work under general supervision to define solutions for medium-complex business information systems and to offer support for business processes.      

Most computer systems analysts are general purpose analysts who conduct systems analysis, develop systems, fix existing systems, and implement modified or replacement systems. However, specialized systems analysts are responsible for computer systems design, as well as the development, testing, and maintenance of the system and its components.  

Each company uses different computer programs and has different IT needs, so the systems analyst’s job description is not the same in all organizations. However, most positions will require analyzing and developing system modifications and determining the need for new equipment and software development. Although the job description of a system analyst can vary in some respects, it tends to focus on similar qualifications and skills. The position of computer systems analyst is projected to be one of the fastest growing jobs in the US economy.