Computer Systems Analysts

To make a career choice you must begin by understanding what the job entails. Knowing what a computer systems analyst does is important part in being prepared. What leads me to making a decision about my future was a job layoff. When ask if I had any desire to try a new line of work the area of computers seems to have a large choice. There are several different fields dealing with computers. The one with medium pay range was called compute systems analysts. The information I received was that this field could be entered after only a two year degree. After learning that it makes take longer than I thought it will become a long term goal.
A systems analyst must be willing to do research on the project he plans to pursue even before doing the actual job. He must know hardware and software used in the computer fields. The analyst gives advice to the uses about which software or hardware devices would work the best in some cases the analyst helps with the development of a new system. There are four talents person that does this work develops and fine tunes throughout his career. First he need to understand the companies and what is its purpose. With technical skills comes an understanding of the potential and the limitations of information technology. An analyst develops management skills to be able to perform projects, manage the resources, and handle risk he must take in the choices he makes. Lastly he should work well with the system users and other personnel.

Systems analysts may act as liaisons between vendors and the organization they represent. They may be responsible for developing cost analyses, design considerations, and implementation time-lines. They may also be responsible for feasibility management. Basically a systems analyst performs the following tasks. Interact with the customers to know their requirements, interact with designers to convey the possible interface of the software, interact /guide the coders/developers to keep track of system development, perform system testing with sample/live data with the help of testers, implement the new system and prepare high quality documentation.(Cashman 1) Some aspects of those working with computers can be confusing. There are those who study computer science but enter a different field like designing or upgrading the hardware used in the systems. There are areas of networking that overlap the computer analysis job, but he does not need a degree in that field. There are more general titles or names used to fit the exact job, all analysts do not use that title.

When a system is approved, systems analysts oversee the implementation of the required hardware and software components. They coordinate tests and observe the initial use of the system to ensure that it performs as for computer programmers to follow; then they work with programmers to “debug,” or eliminate errors, from the system. After the system has been implemented, tested, and debugged, computer systems analysts maytrain its users and write instruction manuals. Because they are responsible for both programming and systems analysis,these workers must be proficient in both areas. As this dual proficiency becomes more common,analysts are increasingly working with databases, object-oriented programming languages, client–server applications, and multimedia and Internet technology. (US Dept. 1)
The outlook for growth shows that the industries which use technology are growing faster than any other. This growth is forecasted through 2014. Many analysts are moving into the field of specialized consultants. A computer systems analyst should specialize in businesses that depend on information technology to keep growing. An analyst must keep himself update in their skills. Now we will look at the education and training needed for this career. Business enterprises generally prefer individuals with information technology, business, and accounting skills and frequently assist employees in obtaining these skills. Employers usually look for people who have broad knowledge and experience related to computer systems and technologies, strong problem-solving and analytical skills, and the ability to think logically.
Instead of a degree, some employers other job qualifications vary greatly by employer, but generally include. Knowledge of a specific computer system, strong analytical and problem-solving skills, good interpersonal and communication skills, background in the employer's industry, empathy for the financial bottom line, typical experience required is two years or more. But, some employers accept advanced degrees instead,while others offer entry-level jobs and internships that require no experience. Certain systems analyst jobs require a security clearance, such as those at government agencies or corporations that serve the government on contract. (Niznik 1) One reason for wanting to enter this field of work is the working environment. Many jobs must be done working with the weather. Some people work outside in the rain, heat, cold and in the snow. The people you work around also effects the way you feel and on how you perform. This tells the drawbacks to working with computers. Computer systems analysts work in offices or laboratories in comfortable surroundings. Many work about 40 hours a week, but some work more than 50 hours a week. Some analysts telecommute, using computers to work from remote locations. Injuries in this occupation are uncommon, but computer systems analysts, like other workers who spend long periods typing on a computer, are susceptible to eyestrain, back discomfort, and hand and wrist problems systems analysts vary depending on the job. (US Dept. 1)The job duties change according to the business of the company. On the most part the analyst keeps the system updated and working to meet information technology needs. Sometimes revamp a system to do a new task or networking computer systems. The coordinating of information with programmers, network-security specialists and software engineers is a part of the job. The employment of an analyst and advancement are important to those who are willing to work their way up higher.
Career advancement for computer systems analysts with leadership skills includes promotion to middle-management positions, such as project manager or manager of information systems, or even executive positions such as chief information officer (CIO). (Niznik 1)
Computer systems analysts held about 532,200 jobs in 2008. Although they are employed in many industries, 24 percent of these workers were in the computer systems design and related services industry. Computer systems analysts also were employed by governments; insurance 30,300 computer systems analysts were self-employed in 2008. (US Dept.1)

Employment of computer systems analysts is expected to grow by 20 percent from 2008 to 2018, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. Demand for these workers will increase as organizations continue to adopt and integrate increasingly sophisticated technologies and as the need for information security grows. (Niznik 1)
The topic that will be shared is the salary of those that are using skills as analysts. Some have different titles but they all link with Information technology.According to Robert Half International, 2005 starting salaries for systems analysts ranged from $61,500 to $82,500. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), 2005 starting salaries were from $44,417 to $62,727, depending on the degrees .(Niznik 1)Systems Analyst in 2009 earned from $67,500 to $93,250. In 2010 the projected earnings were $ 65,250 to $ 92,250. CRM Business Analyst earned $65,250 to $ 90,500 in 2009. Data Warehouse Analyst earned in 2009 was 8100,500 to $108,750. E-Commerce Analyst earned $ 66,250 to $96,250. (Messmer 10 -11)