Someone who configures, maintains, and supports computers in the workplace is known as a systems analyst, also known as a computer systems analyst. This type of expert can help you decide which computers and software to buy, as well as how they’ll all work together. He may be in charge of improving computers that are already in use in some cases.
The systems analyst’s first task is to find out what employees or company departments require from their computers. Then he begins designing a computer system capable of handling the tasks that must be completed. A system like this could include a number of computers with various software and technology tools.
The system analyst breaks down the task it handles into steps after planning the computer system. This can be accomplished by creating charts and diagrams to show how data enters the system, how it is processed, and how it is distributed to those who require it. For example, when designing a computer system for a retail store, a systems analyst must ensure that sales data is transferred and organized in a way that is useful to the store manager.
Following that, the systems analyst must choose the best computers, software, and tools to purchase, often while working within a budget and other constraints. He may be involved in computer programming in some cases, collaborating with the programmer to create new software. After all of the computer system’s components have been integrated, the system analyst must ensure that data can be transferred from one computer to the next. He must also ensure that the system functions as intended, and he may make changes to his strategy to correct errors or improve efficiency.
A bachelor’s degree in computer science, information science, or management information systems is required for most system analysts. Some analysts, on the other hand, have bachelor’s degrees in a different field combined with computer science or information technology coursework. A few system analysts have master’s degrees in business administration with a computer technology specialization. This level of education may enable the analyst to select the most appropriate technologies for specific business operations.
System analysts must not only understand computers, but also be mathematicians in order to calculate how much power each computer system consumes. System analysts must also have excellent communication skills, as they must explain how computers work to people who are unfamiliar with technology and its terminology. With workplaces increasingly reliant on computers of all kinds, system analysts have a bright future and will likely continue to play an important role in the workforce.