Let’s face it: technology isn’t going anywhere, and as it continues to play a larger and larger role in society, there will be an increasing need for computer systems analysts who can analyze, design, and implement computer systems for businesses, government agencies, and other organizations to help them operate more efficiently.
The job outlook is positive and earning potential is high for computer systems analysts, sometimes referred to as systems architects. In this article, we will answer the following questions:
- What is a computer systems analyst?
- What are the education requirements?
- What do analysts do on a daily basis?
- What skills are needed?
- How do I become a computer systems analyst?
- What’s the salary?
- What’s the job outlook?
Read on for deeper insights into this popular profession, and take a look at our list of recommended blogs and publications for computer systems analysts.
What Is a Computer Systems Analyst?
A computer systems analyst is a professional who specializes in analyzing an organization’s current computer systems and procedures, then designing and implementing new systems and processes to improve productivity, efficiency, and overall performance.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), they typically work with business analysts, software developers, and other Information Technology (IT) professionals to ensure the organization’s computer systems are efficient and effective in meeting business objectives. Their work involves researching, testing, and evaluating new technology and software solutions to determine which ones will be most beneficial for their organization.
Computer systems analysts work in various industries, including health care, finance, education, government, and of course, technology. They are responsible for understanding the organization’s business needs, analyzing existing systems, and recommending solutions to help improve the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the computer systems.
What Education is Needed to Become a Computer Systems Analyst?
To become a computer systems analyst, a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field is usually required, says the BLS. Some employers may hire candidates with a degree in a related field, such as mathematics or engineering, if they have relevant work experience in the IT industry.
O*Net Online advises you don’t need a master’s degree to become a computer systems analyst. However, you may choose to pursue an advanced degree for several reasons. O*Net reports the following spread of required education for careers in this field:
- 33% require a bachelor’s degree
- 29% require an associate degree
- 14% require a master’s degree
Some computer systems analysts may choose to pursue a master’s degree in information technology, computer science, or a related field to enhance their knowledge and skills. A master’s degree can also help individuals advance their careers and qualify for higher-level positions such as IT director or chief technology officer.
In addition to formal education, computer systems analysts must also stay current with the latest developments in technology and software, advises the BLS. This may include attending conferences, participating in professional development courses, and reading industry publications.
What Does a Computer Systems Analyst Do?
LiveAbout describes the role as the following: a computer systems analyst’s primary responsibility is to ensure an organization’s computer systems are efficient and effective in meeting their business objectives. They accomplish this by analyzing the organization’s current computer systems and procedures, identifying areas that can be improved, and designing and implementing new systems and processes. Systems analysts also must understand the industry they are working in.
The specific duties of a computer systems analyst may vary depending on the employer and industry, but generally include the following five responsibilities:
- Analyzing current systems and procedures: A computer systems analyst will review the organization’s current computer systems, applications, and procedures to identify areas that can be improved.
- Designing new systems and processes: Based on their analysis, a computer systems analyst will design new systems and processes that will improve the organization’s efficiency and effectiveness.
- Testing and evaluating new technology and software: A computer systems analyst will research and evaluate new technology and software solutions to determine which ones will be most beneficial for their organization.
- Collaborating with IT professionals: A computer systems analyst will work closely with business analysts, software developers, and other IT professionals to ensure that the organization’s computer systems are efficient and effective.
- Providing training and support: A computer systems analyst will provide training and support to end-users to ensure that they are able to use the new systems and processes effectively.
How To Become a Computer Systems Analyst
Becoming a computer systems analyst, as mentioned above, typically requires a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field. Some employers may hire candidates with a degree in a related field — such as mathematics or engineering — if they have relevant work experience in the IT industry.
Follow these five steps from the BLS to become a computer systems analyst:
- Earn a bachelor’s degree: Most computer systems analysts earn a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field and learn computer programming, software development, database management, and network administration in their degree programs.
- Gain work experience: While some entry-level positions may be available for recent graduates, many employers prefer to hire candidates with relevant work experience. Individuals can gain experience by working in entry-level positions in the IT industry, such as a computer support specialist or a software developer.
- Consider pursuing a master’s degree: A master’s degree in information technology, computer science, or a related field can help analysts advance their careers and qualify for higher-level positions. Some employers may require a master’s degree for certain positions.
- Develop technical and analytical skills: To become a successful computer systems analyst, individuals must have strong technical and analytical skills. They should be familiar with programming languages, operating systems, and database management and be able to analyze complex data and develop solutions to address business problems.
- Stay current with the latest technology and software: As technology continues to evolve rapidly, computer systems analysts must stay current with the latest developments in technology and software. This may involve attending conferences, participating in professional development courses, and reading industry publications.
What Skills Are Needed to Become a Computer Systems Analyst?
To become a successful computer systems analyst, individuals must have a combination of technical and analytical skills to perform the job. As described by O*Net, the top five include:
- Technical skills: Computer systems analysts must have a strong understanding of programming languages, operating systems, database management, and network administration. They should also be familiar with software development methodologies and tools.
- Analytical skills: Computer systems analysts must be able to analyze complex data and develop solutions to address business problems. They should be able to identify patterns and trends in data and develop strategies to improve efficiency and productivity.
- Communication skills: Computer systems analysts must be able to communicate technical information to non-technical stakeholders. They should be able to translate technical jargon into language that can be easily understood by others.
- Project management skills: Computer systems analysts must be able to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines. They should be able to develop project plans, allocate resources, and monitor progress.
- Problem-solving skills: Computer systems analysts must be able to identify problems and develop creative solutions to address them. They should be able to think critically and approach problems from multiple angles.
Further, take a look at these 11 critical software skills O*Net suggests computer systems analysts acquire:
- Database user interface and query software: This allows users to interact with databases using Graphical User Interfaces (GUIs) to create, modify, and retrieve data. It also allows users to write queries to extract data from the database. Examples of database user interface and query software include Oracle SQL Developer, MySQL Workbench, and Microsoft SQL Server Management Studio.
- Development environment software: Used by developers to create and manage software applications, this software typically includes tools for writing and editing code, debugging, and testing. Examples of development environment software include Microsoft Visual Studio, Eclipse, and Xcode.
- Object- or component-oriented development software: This enables developers to create and manage software using Object-Oriented Programming (OOP) or Component-Based Development (CBD) approaches. OOP involves creating objects that encapsulate data and behavior, while CBD involves creating reusable software components that can be combined to create larger systems. Examples of object- or component-oriented development software include Java, C#, and Python.
- Program testing software: Get help testing software applications to ensure they function correctly and meet requirements with tools for automated testing, performance testing, and debugging. Examples of program testing software include Selenium, JUnit, and Visual Studio Test Professional.
- Web development software: Used to develop web-based applications and websites, this includes tools for creating and editing web pages, managing web content, and deploying web applications. Examples of web development software include WordPress, Drupal, and Adobe Dreamweaver.
- Backup or archival software: Primarily used to backup and archive important data to protect it from loss or corruption, backup software can automate the process of creating backups and allow for easy restoration of data in case of data loss. Examples of backup or archival software include Acronis True Image, Backup Exec, and Carbonite.
- Business intelligence and data analysis software: Data visualization and analysis tools can help businesses make informed decisions. Business intelligence software can aggregate data from multiple sources, provide insights through visualization tools, and support ad-hoc querying. Examples of business intelligence and data analysis software include Microsoft Power BI, Tableau, and QlikView.
- Communications server software: Communication and collaboration are central to the role of computer systems analysts. Communications server software can include email servers, instant messaging servers, and video conferencing servers. Examples of communications server software include Microsoft Exchange Server, IBM Lotus Domino, and Cisco Unified Communications Manager.
- Compiler and decompiler software: This is used to translate high-level programming languages into machine code that can be executed by a computer. A compiler is used to convert source code written in a programming language to executable code, while a decompiler is used to reverse the process by converting executable code back to source code. Examples of compiler and decompiler software include GCC, Microsoft Visual C++, and IntelliJ IDEA.
- Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software: Engineers, architects, and designers use this software to create and modify digital models of physical objects. CAD software can be used to create 2D or 3D models, and may include tools for simulation, rendering, and animation. Examples of CAD software include Autodesk AutoCAD, SolidWorks, and Siemens NX.
- Configuration management software: Organization, organization, organization. This software is used to manage changes to software systems and infrastructure configurations in a controlled and organized manner. Configuration management software can help ensure consistency across different environments and versions, and support tracking of changes and their impact. Examples of configuration management software include Ansible, Puppet, and Chef.
What Is a Computer Systems Analyst Salary?
According to the BLS, the median annual salary for computer systems analysts was $99,270 as of May 2020. The lowest 10% earned less than $60,680, while the highest 10% earned more than $158,010. The BLS also reports the highest-paying industries for computer systems analysts are finance and insurance, with median annual salaries of $103,510, and computer systems design and related services, with a median annual salary of $96,700.
What Is the Job Outlook for Computer Systems Analysts?
The BLS projects employment of computer systems analysts will grow 9% through 2031, faster than average for all occupations. The demand for computer systems analysts is expected to increase as organizations continue to adopt new technology and upgrade their computer systems. In addition, the BLS reports the health care industry is expected to be a significant source of job growth for computer systems analysts as health care organizations continue to implement electronic health records and other digital systems.
Resources for Computer Systems Analysts
To stay up-to-date with the latest trends, developments, and best practices in the constantly evolving field of technology, it’s essential for computer systems analysts to follow relevant blogs and publications. Here we list our top choices so computer systems analysts can become more effective in their roles and contribute more value to their organizations.
Top Blogs for Computer Systems Analysts
- TechCrunch: This leading technology blog covers a wide range of topics, including computer systems analysis, software development, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity and features news, analysis, and opinion pieces.
- The Verge: This popular technology blog covers a broad range of topics related to the intersection of technology and culture, including computer systems analysis, consumer electronics, and gaming and features a mix of news, reviews, and analysis pieces.
- ITPro Today: This technology blog focuses on topics related to enterprise technology, including computer systems analysis, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and data analytics. It features news, analysis, and opinion pieces from industry experts and thought leaders, making it an excellent resource for computer systems analysts looking to stay informed about the latest trends and developments in the industry.
- Stack Overflow: This is an online community of developers who share knowledge and insights on a wide range of topics related to software development, including computer systems analysis. The platform features a Q&A forum, blogs, and articles, making it an excellent resource for computer systems analysts looking to stay informed about the latest trends and developments in the industry.
Top Publications/Websites for Computer Systems Analysts
- IEEE Computer Society: This professional organization focuses on computer science and technology, including computer systems analysis. With several publications, including IEEE Computer magazine and IEEE Transactions on Software Engineering, they cover the latest trends and developments in computer systems analysis and related fields.
- ACM Digital Library: The Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) is a professional organization that focuses on computer science and technology, including computer systems analysis. The organization publishes several publications, including the ACM Digital Library, which features articles, papers, and conference proceedings related to computer systems analysis and related fields.
- InformationWeek: This leading technology publication covers a wide range of topics related to computer systems analysis, software development, cybersecurity, and features news, analysis, and opinion pieces.
- CIO: This publication focuses on topics related to IT management, including computer systems analysis, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and data analytics. The publication features news, analysis, and opinion pieces from industry experts and thought leaders.
- InfoWorld: This is a technology publication that covers a wide range of topics related to computer systems analysis, software development, cybersecurity, and more.
- Gartner: This global research and advisory firm provides insights, advice, and tools to help organizations navigate the complex world of technology. The firm produces research reports and publications, including the Gartner Hype Cycle, which provides insights into the latest trends and technologies in computer systems analysis and related fields.
- Wired: This technology and culture publication covers a wide range of topics, including computer systems analysis, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and more. The publication features news, analysis, and opinion pieces.
- TechTarget: This media company produces several publications — including SearchSecurity, SearchNetworking, and SearchStorage — and provides independent coverage of enterprise technology, including computer systems analysis, cybersecurity, and more.
- DevOps.com: This technology publication focuses on DevOps, a set of practices and tools that aim to streamline software development and deployment and features news, analysis, and opinion pieces.
- Computerworld: This leading technology publication covers a wide range of topics related to computer systems analysis, software development, cybersecurity, and more. The publication features news, analysis, and opinion pieces.
- ZDNet: This technology news website covers a wide range of topics, including computer systems analysis, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and software development and features news, analysis, and opinion pieces.
Overview: What Is a Computer Systems Analyst?
A computer systems analyst is a professional who specializes in analyzing, designing, and implementing information systems for businesses and organizations. To become a computer systems analyst, individuals typically need a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field, along with relevant work experience. Individuals must also possess a combination of technical and analytical skills, as well as communication, project management, and problem-solving skills.
The median annual salary for computer systems analysts is $99,270, with the highest-paying industries being finance, insurance, and computer systems design. The job outlook for computer systems analysts is positive, with a projected 9% growth rate through 2031, driven by the increasing demand for technology in all industries.
Overall, the role of computer systems analysts is critical to helping businesses and organizations maximize the efficiency and productivity of their computer systems. As technology continues to evolve rapidly, the demand for computer systems analysts is expected to grow, making it a promising career path for individuals with the right combination of skills and education.
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