What does a systems analyst do?
Systems analysts are problem solvers - they work closely with other departments in a business to identify opportunities for improvement by implementing technical solutions. Unlike their systems administrator counterparts, systems analysts are not hands-on with technology. Rather, systems analysts provide a point of liaison between technicians and non-technical staff like project managers. A large portion of their work revolves around analysing and documenting current processes, formulating proposals for new systems and reviewing the new systems for areas of improvement. They also frequently assist with the development of training resources and documentation of new systems, as well as providing decision making and cost-analysis to project-oriented activities.
Tasks:
- Reviewing and documenting business systems
- Liaising with IT vendors and service providers
- Advising on IT components within projects
- Developing and testing new systems
- Attending conferences to learn new available technologies
What skills do I need to be a systems analyst?
Systems analysts are often called upon to explain technical concepts to non-technical people, and therefore benefit greatly from good communications skills. They are often instrumental as advisors on ICT-related issues in both IT focussed and non-IT focussed projects. An understanding of project management can be helpful, but is not mandatory. Having specialised technical training can also help when dealing with other technicians during implementation and development of IT systems.
- Decision making
- Extensive knowledge of available business technologies
- Ability to work individually or as a team member
- Exceptional written and oral communication skills
Specialisations
System analysts exist for almost every specialist area in ICT. As with any ICT role, technical support and helpdesk jobs are a great starting place where you can learn about the range of technologies used in business today. Many systems analysts advance from support roles to specialist positions such as network engineering or systems administration, before becoming analysts.
Network Analysts
Applications Systems Analyst
IT Security Analyst
Study pathways for systems analysts
Industry certifications and professional memberships go a long to way to show that you are able to stay up-to-date with the latest technologies. Tertiary qualifications are favourable, however on-the-job experience is priceless in demonstrating capacity in both technology and business aspects of systems analysis.
Getting Started
Find a course that focuses on expanding your understanding if information technology
Skill Building
Technology changes rapidly, it’s important to choose an up-to-date course to understand current IT problems
Professional Development
Learn techniques and approaches to problem-solving within an ICT context.
Industry Recognition
Formal registration to work as a systems analyst is not required, however having extensive training on industry leading equipment and software will greatly help you secure employment as well as establish your professional network.
Getting a job after graduation
Put your training to good use and get the best professional head start in your information technology career. Emphasise your personal strengths and achievements in your resume and target your cover letter to the job description listed.