Employed by computer bureaus, companies with large computer installations and consultancy firms.
Key Tasks
Design programs according to a client's needs.
Prepare specifications and diagrams to show the order of the steps in an existing and new system, prior to the programs being written.
The requirements of the client are always discussed at interviews and meetings.
Responsible for producing estimating costs, time and resources required.
Personal Qualities
Require high working standards and personal independence. Need to be able to show initiative, persistence and have good working habits. Need to be able to organise the workload and work under pressure and with minimal supervision.
Need to be a clear logical thinker. Able to follow a problem through to its solution. An enjoyment of teamwork is an advantage.
Entry Requirements
Most organisations require a good tertiary qualification in computer science or business computing. Many systems analysts progress from the applications development area.
On-the-job and in-house training may be given to assist the transition to systems analyst.
Training
Tertiary qualifications gained at University or Polytechnic provide entry-level requirements. Experience as an applications programmer often leads to employment as a systems analyst.
Prospects
Move from systems analyst to project manager or business analyst.. Many systems analysts move into senior management and consultancy roles.
