A guide to becoming a systems analyst

This article discusses the role of a systems analyst as well as the training required for this job.

The role of a systems analyst

A systems analyst is a business support/technical role. This role involves developing IT systems within an organisation. The aim is to improve “efficiency” and “productivity”. It is a problem solving activity. The design of IT systems and its associated costs are prepared by the systems analyst. The job includes implementation of new systems and writing user manuals. Systems analyst position A business systems analyst job title refers to the systems analyst position and the job category IT Consultant is equivalent to a systems analyst role. The job is quite demanding as one should be able to use different programming languages for software development.
Qualifications The entry route into the profession is by degree in an IT related subject and also practical experience. The BTEC and the HND/HNC qualification is also a valid qualification for entry into this profession.

Approved course for system analysts - the career path

Information Technology Management for Business Course An industry approved course is the Information Technology Management for Business Course currently run at 12 universities. It has been developed in collaboration with employers and the E Sector Skills Council. It is a degree course designed to equip the student with business and IT skills. The interaction with industry figures as lecturers or “specialist gurus “and “business mentors” is rooted in this course. Projects are based on “real situations” which may arise in the workplace. Students are introduced to employers while on the course and are also part of an “exclusive network “ of ITMB students from other universities. Salary Graduate starting salaries for system analysts start from £21,000 to £27,000 based on data collected in 2010. The salary depends on what sector one works in. A systems analysts working in the financial sector in project management in London and the South East region could receive an analyst salary close to £80,000, one of the top wages depending on the complexity of the role. Available jobs A significant number of jobs are available in the SME sector. The job is highly technical. One will need higher academic qualifications in an IT related subject and practical experience to enter to this profession. Most job specifications will outline the specific skills one requires to apply for a position in this field of work. One will have to dedicate at least three years studying for a degree in IT or related subject before he can gain employment as a systems analyst.