FREE ESSAY ON SYSTEM ANALYSTS

SYSTEM ANALYSTS

Ok, I know you are wondering what is a systems analysts and what do they do. Well in this
paper not only am I going to tell what they do but I will also tell other important
information. Just sit back, chill and read this computer science careers report. Systems
analysts oversee the development process for new software and hardware. In the case of
software engineers, the project could involve designing a new application program or
other software. Systems analysts, on the other hand, may design either new hardware
systems or software products. The design process is generally lengthy and complex. The
following summary applies mostly to program design, but similar steps would also be
applicable to hardware or operating system design, as well. 
Likely steps in designing a new application program are as follows: 
? Defining the problem: The first step is to pinpoint the nature of the problem by
discussing it with managers and other users. Through this interview process, the analyst
establishes the goals of the new program so that it can be designed to do what users want
it to do. 
? Designing the program: The analyst plans the design and structure of the new program in
the form of step-by-step instructions. Each step of the process must be specified,
including the data to be used, input and output files needed, mathematical and logical
operations to be performed, etc. 
? After developing the design for the program, systems analysts prepare flow charts and
other diagrams that show the flow of data. (Flow charts are used to track data through an
organization as well as through a computer program.) The analyst may also prepare a
cost-benefit analysis to help management decide whether the proposed programming project
is financially feasible and provides sufficient value to make it worth undertaking. 
? Once the project is approved, analysts specify the particular files and records used by
the program, determine the sequence of processing, and design how the output will look so
that it meets the users' needs. Other issues a systems analyst may address include: how
the system will function on a network, the security of data, compatibility with existing
systems, and design of the user interface. 
? Once the program is written, the analyst oversees the testing and evaluation process
and makes sure that all (or most) of the bugs are corrected. 
In a smaller organization, a single programmer-analyst may handle both program design and
coding. Computer Assisted Software Engineering (CASE) tools are now used extensively to
automate much of the programming process, making it easier for a knowledgeable programmer
to fill both functions in software development. Because the possible uses of computers
are so varied and complex, analysts usually specialize in either business, scientific,
engineering, or microcomputer applications. They are found in the computer industry and
in the data processing departments of large organizations such as banks, insurance
companies, and universities. 
Right about now I guess you are wonder what type of education and training you need to
obtain a job like this; and that's what I am going to tell you. A Bachelor's degree in
Computer Science or related field is the base requirement. Prior experience is very
important in this line of work. Employers look for analysts who have both a strong
programming background as well as familiarity with the type of computer systems used in
the employer's organization.
With all of this good information I just shared with you, I just know you want to know
what your pay rate and job advancement opportunities are going to be. In 1992, full-time
systems analysts averaged $42,100. Systems analysis is expected to be one of the fastest
growing fields through 2005. Opportunities should be excellent for systems analysts who
stay abreast of advancements in their field (usually through graduate course work or
other professional training).
My career plans immediately after graduation is to going to seek a job that can offer
some type of training that would help me progress throughout my career. After about two
years I want to be settled in a nice working environment where I can still get some type
of training and maybe even go back to school. In five years after graduation, I plan to
be large and in charge. I want to be my on boss!