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Job Report Computer Systems Analysts
Nature of the Work
Systems analysts plan and develop methods for computerizing business and
scientific tasks or improving computer systems already in use. They may work for the
organization that wants to install a system or for a consulting firm that develops systems
under contract.
Analysts begin an assignment by discussing the data processing problem with
managers or specialists to determine the exact nature of the problem and the break it down
into its component parts. If a retail chain wishes to computerize its inventory system, for
example, systems analysts will determine what information must be collected, how it is to
be processed, and the type and frequency of reports to be produced. After they have
defined the goals of the system, they use techniques such as mathematical model building,
sampling, and cost accounting to plan the system.
Once a design for the system has been developed, systems analysts prepare charts
and diagrams that describe it in terms that managers and other users can understand.
They also may prepare a cost-benefit and return-on-investment analysis to help
management decide whether the proposed system is satisfactory.
If the system is accepted, systems analysts may determine what computer hardware
and software will be needed to set up the system. They also prepare specifications for
programmers to follow and work with them to "debug," or eliminate errors from the system.
The analyst also would design any forms required to collect data and distribute information.
Because the possible uses for computers are so varied and complex, analysts
usually specialize in either business, scientific, or engineering applications. Often, they
have training or experience in the field in which they develop computer systems.
Some analysts improve systems already in use by developing better procedures or
adapting the system to handle additional types of data. Others do research, called
advanced systems design, to devise new methods of systems analysis.
Working Conditions
Systems analysts work in offices in comfortable surroundings. They usually work
about 40 hours a week--the same as other professional and office workers. Occasionally,
however, evening or weekend work may be necessary to meet deadlines.
Employment
Systems analysts held about 411,000 jobs in 1990. Most systems analysts work in
urban areas for data processing service firms, government agencies, insurance companies,
banks and firms that manufacture durable goods.
A small but growing number of systems analysts are employed on a temporary basis.
For example, a company installing a new computer system may need the services of
several systems analysts to get the system running.
Training, Other Qualifications, and Advancement
There is no universally accepted way of preparing for a job as a systems analyst
because employers' preferences depend on the work being done. However, college
graduates almost always are sought for these jobs; and, for some of the more complex
jobs, persons with graduate degrees are preferred. Employers usually want analysts with
a background in accounting or business management for work in a business environment,
while a background in the physical sciences, applied mathematics, or engineering is
preferred for work in scientifically oriented organizations. Many employers seek applicants
who have a degree in computer science, information science, computer information
systems, or data processing. Regardless of college major, employers look for people who
are familiar with programming languages. Courses in computer concepts, systems
analysis, and data base management systems offer good preparation for a job in this field.
Prior work experience in important. About 7 out of 10 persons entering this
occupation typically transfer from other occupations, such as engineer, managers and
computer programmer.
Systems analysts must be able to think logically, have good communication skills,
and like working with ideas and people. They often deal with a number of tasks
simultaneously. The ability to concentrate and pay close attention to detail also is
important. Although systems analysts often work independently, they also work in teams
on large projects. They must be able to communicate effectively with technical personnel,
such as programmers and managers, as well as with people who have no computer
background.
Technological advances come so rapidly in the computer field that continuous study
is necessary to keep skills up to date. Training usually takes the form of 1- and 2-week
courses offered by employers and software vendors. Additional training may come from
professional development seminars offered by professional computing societies.
Indications of experience and professional competence are the Certificate in Data
Processing (CDP) and Certificate of Systems Professional (CSP). These designations are
conferred by the Institute for Certification of Computer Professionals upon candidates who
have 5 years of experience and who have passed a five-part examination.
Systems analysts may be promoted to senior or lead systems analysts after several
years of experience. Systems analysts who show leadership ability also can advance to
jobs as managers of data processing departments. Systems analysts with several years
of experience may start their own computer consulting firms.
Job Outlook
Employment of systems analysts is expected to grow much faster than the average
for all occupations though the year 2000. The demand for systems analysts is expected
to rise as advance in technology lead to new applications for computers. Factory and office
automation, telecommunications, and scientific research are just a few areas where use of
computer systems will expand. About half of all jobs openings for systems analysts will
result from replacement needs--although a smaller proportion of systems analysts than of
all professional workers leave their occupations each year. Most of the systems analysts
who leave the occupation transfer to other jobs such as manager or engineer.
College graduates who have had courses in computer programming, systems
analysis, and other data processing areas as well as training or experience in an applied
field should enjoy the best prospects for employment. Persons without a college degree
and college graduates unfamiliar with data processing will face competition for the large
number of experienced workers seeking jobs as systems analysts.
Earnings
Median weekly earnings of systems analysts who worked full time in 1990 were
about $37,950. The middle 50 percent earned between $28,725 and $48,125 a year. The
lowest 10 percent earned less than $21,100; the highest tenth, more than $54,700.
Systems analysts working in the Northeast had the highest earnings and those in the
Midwest, the lowest. Generally, earnings were greatest in mining and public utilities, and
the lowest in finance, insurance and real estate.
Related Occupations
Other workers in applied mathematics, business, and science who use logic and
reasoning ability to solve problems are programmers, financial analysts, urban planners,
engineers, mathematicians, operations research analysts, and actuaries.
Sources of Additional Information
Further information about occupation of systems analyst is available from:
Association for Systems Management, 24587 Bagley Rd., Cleveland, Ohio
44138.
Data Processing Management Association, 505 Busse Hwy., park Ridge, Ill.
60068.
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