The systems analyst is the person who gathers information from the uses, analyses the problems and

designs a suitable system. The systems analyst's responsibilities are to: 1. 2. 3. 4. study processing problems and suggest computer solutions produce a report describing the software and hardware needed for an organisation work with programmers to develop programs implement programs on the user's computers

Generally, a degree in computer science is required for this job. A person without such a degree would usually need to have at least five years' experience as a programmer.

Systems analysts and designers have the job of designing and planning software solutions. They typically visit an organisation, to see how the computer systems can help with the work, and plan out the software will need.

The systems analyst is the person who is responsible for the analysis, design and implementation of a business system on the computer. The development of a computer information system is major undertaking, requiring significant amounts of time, people and money. It can involve a staggering range of tasks, and a vast number of people with varying skills and backgrounds. Someone must keep things in perspective and give meaning and direction to the development process. The people involved can be broadly classified into technical (for example programmers) and non-technical (for example users). Someone must be the communication link between these two groups of people. Systems analysis can be described as a way of solving business problems using computer technology. So we need someone who is good at problem-solving, who knows about business operations, and has a strong background in relevant areas of computer science. Thus, in order to be successful, a systems analyst must possess at least the following attributes: 1. Communication skills- Effective communication is vital to the success of any systems project. The analyst is the medium through which communication should flow smoothly. They must be able to talk intelligently with high-level management, as well as with clerical staff or programmers and operators. The analyst must be able to communicate clearly and concisely, both in writing and speech. 2. Problem-solving skills- Systems are developed to solve problems. An analyst must have wide experience in solving problems. A key requirement is to remain objective and not get involved in any personal conflicts. Objectivity can be achieved in the following way: a. Define the problem; if necessary, break up a complex problem into smaller ones. b. Analyse the problem; try to determine its cause.

c. Consider alternatives for removing the cause. d. Evaluate these alternatives; what are their benefits and disadvantages? e. Choose the best alternative. 3. Business knowledge- It is important for the analyst to completely understand the business environment for which the system is being developed. They must be familiar with existing business operations, so that they can decide if a computer can do the job better. Traditionally, systems analysts have been computer-oriented, and many poor systems have been developed because the analyst did not understand did not understand the business side well enough. 4. Technical knowledge- Analysts should be well-trained in relevant areas of computer science. They must be thoroughly familiar with the capabilities and limitations of hardware and software products. While they did not have to be crackshot programmers, they must know enough about programming ideas and techniques to be able to design systems which can be implemented. There have been many instances in which 'analysts', with little or no programming knowledge, have designed systems which could not be programmed in a finite amount of time. In short, a successful systems analyst must be a professional. He or she must be resourceful, ingenious and creative. Systems analysis may be frustrating, complex and difficult. But it is a challenge which many find fascinating, and this fascination can lead to a job that is exciting, interesting and highly rewarded.