How to become A Systems Analyst

Systems Analysts bridge the familiar yet baffling chasm between an organisation’s IT and non-IT. Their hard-earned expertise in computers, information systems and current business practices help them design, modify, enhance or adapt IT systems that improve business efficiency and productivity. 

• Business Technology Analyst

What do Systems Analysts do?

A Systems Analyst would typically need to:

• Design or implement and upgrade the correct computer software, hardware and cloud services that meet user needs and solve business-related issues
• Examine current IT systems and business models; meet and gather feedback from existing users
• Coordinate with internal and external stakeholders to establish project scope, system goals and requirements
• Identify options for potential solutions and assess them for both technical and business competence
• Produce project feasibility and costings reports; present proposals to clients/management
• Understand software development lifecycles; liaise with other IT staff such as programmers and software developers to build new systems
• Develop, analyse, prioritise and organise requirement analysis, data mapping, diagrams, and flowcharts to be implemented by developers and testers
• Define and coordinate the execution of testing procedures and develop test cases for comprehensive quality assurance
• Manage the implementation and configuration of systems, including data migration; map and document interfaces between legacy and new systems
• Ensure adherence to budget and meeting of deadlines; support users on change control and system updates
• Develop and implement maintenance procedures, monitor systems health, gather system statistics and troubleshoot reported errors and alarms
• Deploy, maintain and troubleshoot core business application servers, associated hardware, endpoints and databases
• Implement best practices for scalability, supportability, ease of maintenance and system performance
• Translate highly technical specifications into precise non-technical requirements; document all processes and training, as required

Most Systems Analysts work in an office environment and typically sit in front of a computer for long periods. It is possible to work at a client’s business or from home. They work with other analysts, programmers, software developers and testers. 

Full-time Systems Analysts usually work 37 to 40 hours/week, although those in the financial sector and consultancy put in significantly more hours. Regardless of the industry you work in. You may need to work overtime, including weekends, to meet deadlines, deal with any technical issues and assist in crises such as system outages. 

Finding a new job might seem challenging. Systems Analysts can boost their job search by asking their network for referrals, contacting companies directly, using job search platforms, going to job fairs, leveraging social media, and inquiring at specialist recruitment agencies. Individuals with several years of relevant experience can opt for self-employment.

Systems Analysts are generally employed by:

• IT or Software Consultancy Firms
• Management Consultancy Firms
• Commercial & Industrial Organisations
• The Government
• Retailers
• Service Industries
• Financial Institutions
• Non-Profit Organisations
• Automotive Firms
• Insurance Companies
• Global Investment Banks
• Utility Companies

Professional associations and organisations, such as The Technical Committee on Computer Architecture, are crucial for Systems Analysts interested in pursuing professional development or connecting with like-minded professionals in their industry or occupation. Membership in one or more adds value to your resume while bolstering your credentials and qualifications.

• Failure to elicit the actual needs of stakeholders, not merely their expressed desires
• Complex requirements that are multi-dimensional in scope and include the users, people running the software, process automated through the software, environment, infrastructure, user interface and software interface
• Human- and communication-intensive requirement development process
• Ineffective communication due to lack of business understanding

Systems Analysts with relevant IT-related work experience have an edge in the job market. So, take advantage of any internship, industrial placement or vacation work that comes your way to gain experience in information technologies and systems analysis. 

Large companies usually advertise internships and placements on their websites and IT job websites. Competition is keen among high-profile employers, so begin applying to larger firms early in your final year. 

Smaller companies would usually be the target of speculative applications from aspiring professionals who wish to acquire experience in installing, configuring, documenting, testing and implementing new applications and systems.

An information systems business analyst higher apprenticeship or a digital and technology solutions degree apprenticeship could prove your ability to assess business needs and translate them into relevant solutions.

Read about the profession and interview/job shadow experts working in systems analysis to prove your commitment to course providers and prospective employers. 

Most Systems Analysts have a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, business administration or management information systems. A Diploma of Information Technology (Systems Analysis) should also serve the purpose. 

By the time they complete the program, students should ideally know about computer operating systems, hardware and software, SAP business software applications, business information systems and the principles and practices associated with database maintenance and administration.

Applicants with a bachelor’s degree in arts and humanities must prove their interest in computers and IT and complete a postgraduate IT conversion course to get the job.

Focus on computer studies, IT, business studies, economics and English in high school.

Certification demonstrates a Systems Analyst’s competence in a skill set, typically through work experience, training, and passing an examination. 

CompTIA Linux+ certification demonstrates your knowledge of Linux in managing servers, cloud services, cybersecurity, mobile and web administration applications. Vendor-neutral certifications such as Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control will help you stay ahead of the game in tackling real-world threats in the current business world. 

CompTIA A+ certification tests your knowledge of operating systems, data, security, networking, hardware and helps desk services, essential for an entry-level position in systems analysis.

Certification from an objective and reputed organisation can help you stand out in a competitive job market, carry a significant salary premium of up to 18 per cent, increase your chances of advancement, and become an independent consultant.

Performance, experience, and the acquisition of professional qualifications drive career progression and the size of the organisation, its structure, and business focus. Systems Analysts with consistently high-performance levels may be eligible for promotion as Senior or Lead Analysts. A few can eventually become IT Directors or Chief Technology Officers (CTOs).

Indirect moves within the organisation may involve developing specific technical expertise in a Systems/Technical Architect role. It is also possible to become a Project Manager, Strategic Business Planner, Sales Manager or Accounts Manager when you gain additional qualifications and expertise.

Your career path may also lead you to roles such as Database Administrators, Computer Network Architects, Computer Programmers, Information Security Analysts, Software Developers or IT Managers.

Large organisations may allow you to specialise in a specific client group, advance the corporate way, work in multidisciplinary teams or move to overseas branches of the parent group.

Conversely, smaller organisations will help their deserving Systems Analysts gain expertise in various associated functions across the business and experience the direct commercial impact of their work.

Candidates who have current knowledge of analytics, big data, cloud technology, data protection, mobile apps and security have the best job prospects.

Continuing professional development (CPD) will help an active Systems Analyst build personal skills and proficiency through work-based learning, a professional activity, formal education, or self-directed learning. CPD also allows for the regular renewal of desirable certifications.

On-the-job training supplemented by in-house courses will give forward-looking professionals valuable skills in principles of system analysis and specific training required for special projects. They will also enhance your analytical, planning, negotiation, creativity, interpersonal, communication, leadership and presentation skills.

Large companies typically offer mentoring schemes that allow you to work in different environments with diverse systems or customise the training to a particular project. As new and innovative technologies, products and services hit the market, accredited practitioner qualifications in enterprise and solutions architecture, short courses, and postgraduate programs will help you remain competitive in this dynamic industry.

Erosion of Boundaries

With fourth-generation languages (4GL) and object-oriented programming simplifying technological language, traditional boundaries between systems analysis and programming are eroding rapidly. 

Add overlap with project management to the mix and increasingly fluid job titles in the IT sector, and you will realise that you need to pay more attention to the job descriptions rather than job titles.

Specialisation or Diversification

Some IT companies specialise in one area, such as internet solutions or produce software suited to a particular market. 

End-user organisations with large IT departments may employ their own internal analysts who focus on payment systems, information storage, client records management or compliance processes.

Small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) give you the opportunity to develop a diverse range of skills, accountability and experience through various short-term projects from the early days of their employment.

Potential Pros & Cons of Freelancing vs Full-Time Employment

Freelancing Systems Analysts have more flexible work schedules and locations. They have full ownership of the business and can select their projects and clients. However, they experience inconsistent work and cash flow, which means more responsibility, effort and risk.

On the other hand, a full-time Systems Analyst has company-sponsored health benefits, insurance, and retirement plans. They have job security with a fixed, reliable source of income and guidance from their bosses. Yet, they may experience boredom due to a lack of flexibility, ownership, and variety.

When deciding between freelancing or being a full-time employee, consider the pros and cons to see what works best for you.

A company that does not understand systems analysis includes programming languages in the job description.

Systems Analysts who are innate troubleshooters examine a company’s standard technology processes and help find technical solutions that will effectively improve its business. 

Employers are looking for good problem solvers and team players with analytical minds.