The configuration analyst’s primary responsibility is to examine the various options available in any software product and determine the best way to modify it to meet user requirements. The analyst typically collaborates with a group of system developers, programmers, and business analysts. He or she works in the information technology department and is usually responsible for a specific aspect of the business process or software.
A large enterprise resource planning system, or ERP, is usually associated with this type of analyst. These solutions come with a plethora of options, many of which are configurable at the system level. The analyst modifies the system to meet the user’s needs while maintaining system integrity, working closely with the end user or customer.
A configuration analyst usually has a degree in information technology systems or computer programming from a university or college. Software companies and information technology departments are both good places to work for people in this field. Many analysts also work as consultants, assisting in the implementation of new systems.
As a configuration analyst, people who enjoy working with technology and can work as part of a team report the highest levels of satisfaction. Professionals in information technology must collaborate, completing tasks independently while ensuring that the team’s work is not disrupted. The configuration analyst’s role is critical to the successful implementation of a software product as well as maximizing the tool’s functionality.
The configuration analyst is frequently the go-to person for information on the various options for resolving a business problem. He or she is expected to be completely knowledgeable about the system’s details and to be able to direct team members to the appropriate system documentation. Step-by-step procedural guides, overview material, field-specific definitions, explanations of reporting functions, and training material are common examples of reference material. In addition to standard documentation, the analyst should keep track of system changes compiling internal documentation.
A configuration analyst’s day-to-day work includes system testing. Quality and functional testing are the two types of testing. Testing for quality ensures that the processes produce the desired result. Each command or program is functionally tested to ensure that it performs as expected.
The information technology department in most companies employs two or three configuration analysts. The number of analysts and the size of the department are determined the type of software they use and whether they maintain it themselves or hire a computer services company to do so. A career as a configuration analyst necessitates a commitment to lifelong learning. Technology is always changing, so it’s important to put in the time and effort to stay up to date.