Systems analysts, also known as business analysts, are IT specialists who are brought in by companies to evaluate their IT systems, business functions and procedures; to identify areas for improvement; and design and integrate computer-based solutions to meet the particular business needs.

Solutions can range from designing new tailor-made IT networks to modifying the structure of existing information databases. An element of future-proofing is normally built in so as the business develops, the IT systems also evolve to encompass the changes. Analysts work in a wide range of sectors as well as IT, including finance, local and central government, manufacturing, construction and engineering, and public bodies such as universities and health authorities.

The work can involve:

• drawing up specific proposals for a modified or replacement system
• carrying out commercial feasibility assessments of proposals
• working closely with programmers and developers who build the system
• overseeing the installation of a new system
• planning and working to a completion deadline
• providing training and training manuals to users of a new or upgraded system.

After the solution is drawn up, the analyst oversees the testing and evaluation process to ensure any faults (bugs) are corrected.

Computer Assisted Software Engineering (CASE) tools and object-orientated programming languages, such as Visual Basic, C++ , Java and Smalltalk, are increasingly used, which allow the analysis and programming functions to be combined and carried out within the same role.

Hours and Environment

Most systems analysts work 37 to 40 hours a week. However, the intense nature of the work, which often involves deadlines and emergency problem solving, can lead to overtime and weekend work.

Work is office-based at their own company or on-site with the client. This may involve some travel or being away from home for periods of time.

Skills and Interests

As a systems analyst, you should:

• have an extensive knowledge of hardware, software and programming
• be able to gather and interpret data
• have excellent communication skills, for discussing ideas with colleagues from technical and non-technical roles, and clients
• have excellent analytical skills and creative approach to problem solving
• have good negotiating skills
• be able to plan and manage a project
• have an appreciation of wider business demands
• be able to work within a budget
• be willing to update skills in line with developments within the sector
• be able to work as part of a team.

Entry

The most usual entry requirement for a career as a systems analyst is a degree or BTEC HNC/HND. Relevant subjects include: computer science/studies, information management systems and business information systems. It is recommended that you look for a course which focuses on business as well as the technical elements.

Non-IT graduates can study for postgraduate IT conversion courses although companies may still require some industry experience to back this up.

Minimum entry for a degree course is five GCSEs (A-C)/S grades (1-3) with two A levels/three H grades, or equivalent. Minimum entry to BTEC HNC/HND is four GCSEs (A-C)/S grades (1-3) with one A level/two H grades, or equivalent.

An Access to Higher Education qualification may also be accepted for entry to certain courses. Please check with colleges or universities for exact entry requirements.

Knowledge of some of the following may be helpful when applying for positions: Customer Relationship Management (CRM) applications, Relational Database Management Systems (RDBMS), Oracle, SQL, Unified Modelling Language (UML) and SAP software applications.

For details about careers in this field, see the websites for e-skills UK, British Computer Society (BCS), the Institute for the Management of Information Systems (IMIS) and the Institution of Analysts and Programmers (IAP) in Further Information.

Training

Training is provided by employers both in systems analysis and in specific software applications. The initial training period can be very demanding, especially if you are from a non-IT background.

The British Computer Society (BCS) offers a series of professional awards – Certificate, Diploma and Professional Graduate Diploma for those wishing to enhance their career prospects. These are equivalent to the first, second and third year of a university honours degree, respectively. Candidates can choose from a range of options including systems analysis, design and management. Contact BCS for further details and entry requirements.

The Institute for the Management of Information Systems (IMIS) offers a series of programmes ranging from introductory level through to the equivalent of ordinary degree level for people wishing to enhance their career prospects within the information management sector. See IMIS website in Further Information for details.

A Graduate Professional Development Award (GDPA) has been developed by e-skills in conjunction with higher education institutions and employers in the IT sector. It can be studied as part of an undergraduate, postgraduate or work-based training programme. The Award covers key skills required by the industry including communication and problem solving, team working and technical competencies. See e-skills UK for details.

The NVQ/SVQ for IT Professionals at levels 3 and 4 is available for those already working in this field.

Proprietary certification qualifications are also available through software development companies.

For details of options in terms of professional development, see the Skills Framework for the Information Age (SFIA) website. The framework has been developed by the professional bodies listed in Further information in conjunction with industry. It allows IT professionals, training providers and employers to reference their skills or requirements and help identify career development pathways.

Opportunities

Opportunities are good with systems analysts employed across the whole range of commerce and industry, public services, utilities, defence and research.

Opportunities are available overseas, working for UK-based organisations, foreign companies or multinationals.

Career progression often involves promotion to senior or principal analyst and movement between companies is quite common to achieve this. There may be the option to become a specialist analyst in a particular field, for instance, finance or security. See the profile for IT Security Coordinator.

Experienced analysts can move into project management then strategic business planning; they can also become self-employed and work on a contract or consultancy basis.

Annual Income

Figures are intended as a guideline only.

New entrants can expect between £19,000 and £24,000 a year.
Experienced analysts earn between £25,000 and £40,000.
Senior analysts involved in project management can earn over £50,000 a year.

Further information

Charles House
36 Culmington Road
London
W13 9NH
Tel: 020 8567 2118 1 Castle Lane
London
SW1E 6DR 5 Kingfisher House
New Mill Road
Orpington
Kent
BR5 3QG
Tel: 0700 002 3456 1 Sanford Street
Swindon
Wiltshire
SN1 1HJ