FREE ESSAY ON SYSTEM ANALYST

SYSTEM ANALYST

Systems analysts solve computer problems and enable computer technology to meet individual
needs of an organization. They help an organization realize the maximum benefit from its
investment in equipment, personnel, and business processes. This process may include
planning and developing new computer systems or devising ways to apply existing systems'
resources to additional operations. Systems analysts may design new systems, including
both hardware and software, or add a new software application to harness more of the
computer's power. Most systems analysts work with a specific type of system that varies
with the type of organization they work for. For example, business, accounting or
financial systems, or scientific and engineering systems. 
Computer systems analysts, engineers, and scientists must be able to think logically and
have good communication skills. They often deal with a number of tasks simultaneously;
the ability to concentrate and pay close attention to detail is important. Although
computer specialists sometimes work independently, they often work in teams on large
projects. They must be able to communicate effectively with computer personnel, such as
programmers and managers, as well as with users or other staff who may have no technical
computer background.
For systems analyst, programmer-analyst, or even database administrator positions, many
employers seek applicants who have a bachelor's degree in computer science, information
science, or management information systems (MIS). Management information systems programs
are usually part of the business school or college. These programs differ considerably
from computer science programs, emphasizing business and management oriented coursework
and business computing courses.
Computer systems analysts, engineers and other computer scientists normally work in
offices or laboratories in comfortable surroundings. They usually work about 40 hours a
week—the same as many other professional or office workers. However, evening or
weekend work may be necessary to meet deadlines or solve specific problems. Given the
technology available today, telecommuting is common for computer professionals. As
networks expand, more work, including technical support, can be done from remote
locations using modems, laptops, electronic mail, and the Internet. For example, it is
possible for technical personnel, such as computer support specialists, to connect to a
customer's computer remotely to identify and fix problems. 
Median annual earnings of computer systems analysts were $52,180 in 1998. The middle 50
percent earned between $40,570 and $74,180 a year. The lowest 10 percent earned less than
$32,470 and the highest 10 percent earned more than $87,810. Median annual earnings in
the industries employing the largest numbers of computer systems analysts in 1997 were:
Telephone communications 
$63,300 
Federal Government 
56,900 
Computer and data processing services 
51,000 
State government, except education and hospitals 
43,500 
Colleges and universities 
38,400 
Computer systems analysts, engineers, and scientists are expected to be the fastest
growing occupations through 2008. Employment of computing professionals is expected to
increase much faster than average as technology becomes more sophisticated and
organizations continue to adopt and integrate these technologies. Growth will be driven
by very rapid growth in computer and data processing services, which is projected to be
the fastest growing industry in the U.S. economy. In addition, thousands of job openings
will arise annually from the need to replace workers who move into managerial positions
or other occupations or who leave the labor force.