Computer systems analyst

Also called: Applications Analyst, Applications Systems Analyst, Automatic Data Processing Planner, Business Systems Analyst, Computer Analyst

Computer systems analyst

Varies

estimated salary

Computer systems analyst analyzes science, engineering, business, and other data processing problems to develop and implement solutions to complex application problems, system administration issues, or network concerns. Perform systems management and integration functions, improve existing computer systems, and review computer system capabilities, workflow, and schedule limitations. May analyze or recommend commercially available software.

  • Test, maintain, and monitor computer programs and systems, including coordinating the installation of computer programs and systems.
  • Troubleshoot program and system malfunctions to restore normal functioning.
  • Expand or modify system to serve new purposes or improve work flow.
  • Use the computer in the analysis and solution of business problems, such as development of integrated production and inventory control and cost analysis systems.
  • Consult with management to ensure agreement on system principles.
  • Confer with clients regarding the nature of the information processing or computation needs a computer program is to address.
  • Develop, document, and revise system design procedures, test procedures, and quality standards.
  • Train staff and users to work with computer systems and programs.
  • Coordinate and link the computer systems within an organization to increase compatibility so that information can be shared.
  • Assess the usefulness of pre-developed application packages and adapt them to a user environment.
  • Define the goals of the system and devise flow charts and diagrams describing logical operational steps of programs.
  • Provide staff and users with assistance solving computer-related problems, such as malfunctions and program problems.
  • Use object-oriented programming languages, as well as client and server applications development processes and multimedia and Internet technology.
  • Review and analyze computer printouts and performance indicators to locate code problems, and correct errors by correcting codes.
  • Supervise computer programmers or other systems analysts or serve as project leaders for particular systems projects.
  • Read manuals, periodicals, and technical reports to learn how to develop programs that meet staff and user requirements.
  • Determine computer software or hardware needed to set up or alter system.
  • Analyze information processing or computation needs and plan and design computer systems, using techniques such as structured analysis, data modeling, and information engineering.
  • Interview or survey workers, observe job performance, or perform the job to determine what information is processed and how it is processed.
  • Specify inputs accessed by the system and plan the distribution and use of the results.
  • Prepare cost-benefit and return-on-investment analyses to aid in decisions on system implementation.
  • Recommend new equipment or software packages.
Work Context
  • Electronic Mail — 100% responded "Every day".
  • Telephone — 90% responded "Every day".
  • Indoors, Environmentally Controlled — 94% responded "Every day".
  • Work With Work Group or Team — 62% responded "Extremely important".
  • Spend Time Sitting — 51% responded "Continually or almost continually".
  • Importance of Being Exact or Accurate — 60% responded "Extremely important".
  • Face-to-Face Discussions — 78% responded "Every day".
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Work Activities
  • Interacting With Computers — Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
  • Getting Information — Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
  • Processing Information — Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
  • Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates — Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
  • Making Decisions and Solving Problems — Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
  • Analyzing Data or Information — Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
  • Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge — Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
  • Thinking Creatively — Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
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Detailed Work Activities
  • Troubleshoot issues with computer applications or systems.
  • Provide technical support for software maintenance or use.
  • Monitor computer system performance to ensure proper operation.
  • Test software performance.
  • Coordinate software or hardware installation.
  • Write computer programming code.
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