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. 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.
2. Reading Comprehension: ? Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
3. Critical Thinking: ? Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
4. Systems Analysis: ? Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
5. Speaking: ? Talking to others to convey information effectively.

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

Core Tasks

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

• Test, maintain, and monitor computer programs and systems, including coordinating the installation of computer programs and systems.
• Troubleshoot program and system malfunctions to restore normal functioning.
• Expand or modify system to serve new purposes or improve work flow.
• Use the computer in the analysis and solution of business problems, such as development of integrated production and inventory control and cost analysis systems.
• Consult with management to ensure agreement on system principles.
• Confer with clients regarding the nature of the information processing or computation needs a computer program is to address.
• Coordinate and link the computer systems within an organization to increase compatibility so that information can be shared.
• Develop, document, and revise system design procedures, test procedures, and quality standards.
• 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.
• Define the goals of the system and devise flow charts and diagrams describing logical operational steps of programs.
• Provide staff and users with assistance solving computer-related problems, such as malfunctions and program problems.