System analyst

Systems analysts are responsible for the complete life-cycle of a new/modified IT system, from analysing existing arrangements to implementing systems and providing training.

The skills of systems analysts are called upon when operational problems are encountered with IT systems.

• examine current systems
• talk to users (requirements gathering)
• produce specifications for new or modified systems
• liaise with other IT staff such as programmers to produce
• implement the new system.

They are also responsible for user training and feedback. Travel is a key feature of the job as the majority of work is undertaken at clients' premises.

Typical employers of systems analysts

• information technology/software consultancy firms
• commercial and industrial organisations
• the Civil Service
• retailers
• service industries
• financial institutions.

Self employment is possible for individuals with several years' relevant experience.
Jobs are advertised by careers services and recruitment agencies, and in local/national newspapers and specialist publications including Computing and TARGETjobs IT. The internet is also a good source of vacancy information.

Qualifications and training required

A genuine interest in and enthusiasm for IT is often more important than your degree subject, although graduates with a technical background (physics, mathematics, computation or software engineering) are preferred.
Arts and humanities graduates (with 2.1 degrees) should be able to demonstrate their interest in computers and IT, and a postgraduate IT conversion course can be useful. Employers often require candidates to meet high standards in programming aptitude tests.

Key skills for systems analysts

• strong analysis skills
• attention to detail
• team working
• written and verbal communication skills
• inter-personal skills
• flexibility
• adaptability
• initiative

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