The work

Systems analysts are IT specialists who design tailor-made computer systems for larger users such as banks, supermarkets, insurance companies, government departments and defence systems. It is their job to investigate and analyse a business problem in detail, in both a commercial and technical context, and specify one or more designs for computer systems to provide possible solutions.

A systems analyst might work:

• in-house for a large commercial company or government department
• as an adviser with a firm of consultants
• for a computer or software manufacturer or distributor.

• working closely with programmers, designers and relevant commercial staff
• drawing up specific proposals for a modified or replacement system
• deciding whether the benefits of a new system will outweigh the costs
• overseeing the installation of a new system
• drawing up a schedule for testing a complete system
• planning and working to a completion deadline
• providing training and training manuals to users of a new system.

The systems analyst then has to plan the design and structure of the new programme in the form of step-by-step instructions. Each step of the process must be detailed, including the data to be used, input and output files needed and the mathematical and logical operations to be performed. The analyst specifies the particular files and records to be used by the programme and determines the sequence of processing, and shows how the final output of the new system would appear so that it meets the user's needs.

Other issues an analyst might have to consider include how a new system will function on a network, the security of data, and compatibility with existing systems. After the programme is written, the analyst oversees the testing and evaluation process and makes sure that any problems are corrected. Computer Assisted Software developing (CASE) tools are now used extensively to automate much of the programming process.

A systems analyst would eventually specialise in a particular area of activity such as business, banking, retail or engineering.

Hours and Environment

Most systems analysts are employed on a normal working week of between 37 and 40 hours. However, the intense nature of the work, which often involves deadlines and emergency problem solving, can lead to overtime and weekend working which is reflected in the salary earned.

A systems analyst will usually work in an office in clean, light surroundings. Working as a consultant involves spending much of the time on clients' premises. This may involve local travel or being away from home for lengthy periods. For most jobs, a driving licence is required.

Skills and Interests

A systems analyst should:

• be interested in IT
• have effective communication skills, including listening
• be able to work in a team, discussing ideas with non-technical people
• be patient and able to persevere - not just in dealing with people but also in solving problems
• be able to concentrate for long periods on a particular problem
• have an analytical and organised mind
• be able to work painstakingly through a task and not give up until a solution is found
• have some mathematical ability and a good understanding of systems and applications
• be self-motivated and have a responsible attitude
  have some business-related experience.

Entry

• The most usual entry requirement for a career as a systems analyst is a degree or OND/HND, although some employers recruit people with AS levels, or the equivalent, as trainee programmers who then go on to become analysts.
• To do a degree, applicants normally need at least two A levels/ five GCEs (A-C) grades (1-3) in other subjects. English and maths are usually required at GSE/S grade for IT-related degree courses.
• No formal qualifications are needed to take an Open University course. These can lead to a first degree in IT and Mathematical Science or in Information Technology and Computing.
• The computer industry is flexible about qualifications and experience tends to be a greater asset than formal qualifications in many jobs. As systems analysts become more involved in the commercial aspects of their work, prior experience in other areas is now becoming even more relevant. It is sometimes possible to enter computing work at a basic level and work towards responsible posts, including those in different areas of IT

Training

Training is provided by employers both in systems analysis and in software. Sometimes this is part of introductory IT training, along with programming training, but more commonly it is given at the point when trainees move into systems analysis work.

Opportunities

Systems analysts are now employed across the whole range of commerce and industry, public services, utilities, defence and research. About 20 per cent of them are women. Opportunities occur with:

• computer manufacturers and software houses
• IT and management consultancies
• computer users who include small, medium and large organisations, banks, public services and utilities
• service and defence establishments.

Annual Income

Further information

Institution of Analysts and Programmers
http://www.iap.org.uk

Institute for the Management of Information Systems
http://www.imis.org.uk