Every computer in every company has to be set up properly and maintained in order to support its users. Operating systems and application software must be installed according to the roles of a computer's users, and hardware may need to be swapped out or upgraded appropriately. In addition, computers must be configured properly in order to communicate with each other over networks, including the Internet, intranets and wireless. Systems analysts are responsible for deciding what software, hardware and settings are needed for each computer, and the steps needed to maintain them. They plan, implement and manage multi-computer systems within an organization.
Additional duties include:
- Assessing the needs of individual departments within an organization and documenting them.
- Planning for the computers and software they will need in order to interact and meet organizational goals.
- Providing analysis of costs versus benefits and potential return on investments for proposed computer systems.
- Establishing and documenting procedures for related tasks.
- Installing and configuring software according to procedures.
- Testing individual computers for proper function; repairing and upgrading software and hardware.
- Working with computer programmers to set up, troubleshoot and maintain computer systems.
- Conducting assessments on the quality and efficiency of computer systems, and making recommendations.
Systems analysts work with both technical and business customers, facilitating communication between the two. Many systems analysts focus on specific computing areas, such as for business, accounting, financial systems or scientific and engineering. Analysts that specialize in selection of system software and infrastructure are sometimes referred to as system architects while those that are specialized in developing and evolving systems are frequently known as systems designers. System analysts typically work in offices or computer labs, and may be either employees or self-employed consultants.
Many employers consider a bachelor's degree to be a minimum requirement for systems analysts, and they prefer a degree that includes both business and technical education. Combined work experience and demonstrated knowledge of emerging in-demand technologies, or a two-year associate's degree in computer science, may be sufficient for some employers.
Three attributes employers look for in preferred candidates are:
- Possession of skills that are in high demand
- Being up-to-speed on emerging technologies
- Having specific education or experience in the company's industry (e.g. healthcare or finance)