Systems Analyst
Job description
Systems/business analysts examine a business activity to help decide whether new IT solutions will improve productivity. They discuss existing business models and the flows of data in the business with those involved. Using a variety of technical and presentation tools, analysts draw up and cost specifications for possible improvements and produce outline designs of new IT systems for others to develop and build. They specify the data, files and logical operations the system will perform as well as the way data will be viewed by the user. Additionally, they may be involved in overseeing project implementation.
Typical work activities
Most systems/business analysts work with a specific type of system, which varies with the type of organisation. Depending on the size and nature of the organisation, work activities will typically involve:
- liasing extensively with external or internal clients;
- producing project feasibility reports;
- translating client requirements into highly specified project briefs;
- identifying options for potential solutions and assessing them for both technical and business suitability;
- creating logical and innovative solutions to complex problems;
- drawing up specific proposals for modified or replacement systems;
- presenting proposals to clients;
- working closely with developers and a variety of end users to ensure technical compatibility and user satisfaction;
- ensuring that budgets are adhered to and deadlines met;
- drawing up a testing schedule for the complete system;
- overseeing the implementation of a new system;
- planning and working flexibly to a deadline;
- providing training to users of a new system;
The term systems analyst, although still current, is increasingly being replaced by the term 'business analyst'. Both terms can be confusing, as they may involve different roles in different organisations. The situation has been further complicated by the introduction of fourth generation languages (4GL) and object-orientated programming, which make it easier to design and modify systems. Traditional boundaries between systems analysis and programming have been eroded and many practitioners now regard themselves as analysts/developers. Some overlap with project management is also common. For further information on related areas of work, see the occupations listed in the related jobs section.