Systems Analyst

What is this job like?		Back to Top

These workers figure out how to use computers to get things done. They tell businesses and other organizations which computers and software to buy, and they decide how to get those tools to work together.

Computer systems analysts start their work by asking people what they need their computers to do. Then, they plan a computer system that can do those tasks well. A system can include many computers working together and different types of software and tools.

After analysts understand what the system needs to do, they break down the task into small steps. They draw diagrams and charts to show how information will get into the computers, how that information will be processed, and how it will get to the people who need it. For example, analysts might decide how sales information will get into a store's computers and how the computer will add up the information in a way that makes it useful for store managers.

Analysts experiment with different computer system plans. They try various tools and steps until they find the system that is fastest, easiest, and least expensive.

Next, analysts decide which computers, software, and tools to buy. They also tell computer programmers how to make any new software that is needed. They give the programmers step-by-step instructions. Some analysts help make the software, too.

The main job for some systems analysts is getting computers to work together. They connect them into a network. Analysts decide how to get information from one computer to another. Many help people get data from the Internet.

After planning a system, analysts test it to make sure it works. They check to make sure that information is processed quickly and without mistakes. They also watch to see if the system is easy to use. Often, they have to change their plans to make the systems better.

Computer systems analysts work in offices or computer labs. Some work from home. Working at the computer for a long time can give these workers eye, back, or wrist problems.

Sometimes, these workers work long hours to get a project done on time.

Analysts usually work as part of a team.

How do you get ready?		Back to Top

Many computer systems analysts have a bachelor's degree in computer science, information science, or management information systems. Some analysts get college degrees in other subjects. Then, they take computer classes and get computer experience.

Some analysts also have a master's degree in business. This helps them to understand the types of computers that businesses need.

Analysts need to understand computers, math, and planning. They need to know math so that they can solve problems and figure out how much computer power different systems would use.

Logical thinking skills are also important.

Analysts need good speaking and writing skills, too, so that they can explain their systems and give good instructions.

How much does this job pay?		Back to Top

In 2006, the middle half of these workers earned between $54,320 and $87,600. The lowest-paid 10 percent earned less than $42,780. The highest-paid 10 percent earned more than $106,820.

How many jobs are there?		Back to Top

In 2006, there were 504,000 computer systems analysts. Many worked for computer consulting companies. About 29,000 were self-employed. They often moved from place to place working on different projects.

Analysts also worked for governments, financial institutions, hospitals, and universities.

What about the future?		Back to Top

The number of computer systems analysts is expected to grow much faster than average between 2006 and 2016.

People with proper training should have good job prospects. Those who have college degrees in business and courses related to computers also should be able to find jobs in this field.

New jobs are expected as more businesses try to use computers and keep them safe from viruses and hacking. New Internet and wireless technologies are also expected to create more jobs because people will need to learn how to use these tools.

Are there other jobs like this?		Back to Top

These workers solve computer problems:

• Computer and information systems managers
• Computer programmers
• Computer software engineers

These workers develop plans and solve business problems:

• Actuaries
• Electrical engineers
• Financial analysts
• Personal financial advisors
• Management analysts
• Mathematicians
• Operations research analysts
• Statisticians
• Urban planners

Where can you find more information?		Back to Top

More BLS information about computer systems analysts, database administrators, and computer scientists can be found in the Occupational Outlook Handbook. The Handbook also shows where to find out even more about this job.

Last Modified Date: April 29, 2008