Computer Systems Analyst

Overview and Key Facts

What Do They Do?

A computer systems analyst could...

Overview Listen to this section

Computer systems analysts have to know what computer programs and related tools are needed to efficiently get a job done. The jobs are usually carried out by other people, but the computer systems analyst makes sure the team has the right computer-based aids they need to do it. A computer systems analyst has to stay on top of the latest technologies, know the capabilities and limitations of different computer parts, and put all of this information together to help a group of people succeed.

Do You Have the Skills and Characteristics of a Computer Systems Analyst?

1. Speaking: ? Talking to others to convey information effectively.
2. Reading Comprehension: ? Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
3. Systems Analysis: ? Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
4. Active Listening: ? Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
5. Systems Evaluation: ? Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system.

6. Critical Thinking: ? Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
7. Judgment and Decision Making: ? Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
8. Active Learning: ? Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
9. Writing: ? Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
10. Complex Problem Solving: ? Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.

Core Tasks

Think about if you'd like the typical tasks a Computer Systems Analyst might do:

• Troubleshoot program and system malfunctions to restore normal functioning.
• Provide staff and users with assistance solving computer-related problems, such as malfunctions and program problems.
• Test, maintain, and monitor computer programs and systems, including coordinating the installation of computer programs and systems.
• Use the computer in the analysis and solution of business problems, such as development of integrated production and inventory control and cost analysis systems.
• Coordinate and link the computer systems within an organization to increase compatibility so that information can be shared.
• Use object-oriented programming languages, as well as client and server applications development processes and multimedia and Internet technology.
• Analyze information processing or computation needs and plan and design computer systems, using techniques such as structured analysis, data modeling, and information engineering.
• Consult with management to ensure agreement on system principles.
• Specify inputs accessed by the system and plan the distribution and use of the results.
• Expand or modify system to serve new purposes or improve work flow.
• Train staff and users to work with computer systems and programs.
• Assess the usefulness of pre-developed application packages and adapt them to a user environment.
• Determine computer software or hardware needed to set up or alter systems.
• Develop, document, and revise system design procedures, test procedures, and quality standards.
• Read manuals, periodicals, and technical reports to learn how to develop programs that meet staff and user requirements.
• Recommend new equipment or software packages.
• Confer with clients regarding the nature of the information processing or computation needs a computer program is to address.
• Define the goals of the system and devise flow charts and diagrams describing logical operational steps of programs.