Computer Systems Analysis Job Description

Computer systems analysts are workers in information technology whose job is to design and implement specialized systems for use in different areas. This involves assessing the needs of the clients and adapting existing software to suit them, or coming up with entirely new software solutions. To do this they will work closely with programmers and provide instruction and guidance in the creation of the software.

Duties

• A business or other entity may employ a computer systems analyst to develop a customized software and hardware solution to enhance productivity. 


• A thorough understanding of how computers are used by their employer will be necessary. 


• A computer systems analyst will have to consult with the managers and workers in the business to discover what their needs are. If there is a system already in place, they will look closely at that system and either adapt or replace it. For systems that are already being used, the job of the computer systems analyst will be to make it better. 


• They will create a plan for programmers to use in creation of the software. They may illustrate this plan with the use of flow charts and modeling. 


• They may enlist a computer systems engineer to help with the creation of the solution if the system to be used is particularly complicated. 


• Before work starts on the new software solution, they will discuss their plan for the system with their employers and refine it if necessary.

Skills required in the work of a computer systems analyst
Because of the wide variety of computer systems and options for designing systems as well as the diverse requirements depending on the industry, computer systems analysts usually specialize in creating solutions within one particular field. For instance, an analyst may opt to work only with systems for hospitals, or for schools, or financial institutions.