Absence of a Business System Analyst is often the reason that relationships between Business People and Programmers go ugly. Most of us have heard stories about business people who bring a project to programmers, and later on the project is either delivered late, or comes short of the specs. That’s not always the case specially when the Programmer does a good system analysis job during the project, but again not every programmer makes a good system analyst.

In larger organizations, System Analysts make the communication between IT and Business departments possible. In the absence of System Analysts this relationship becomes gradually dysfunctional, until at some point one department manages to dominate the other in the power hierarchy. During this struggle, people on both side become overworked, undermined, and frustrated. Eventually, the excessive loss of resources and lack of productivity could bring down an entire organization.

What System Analysts (SA) do, is to study a business model, break it down to smaller bits of tangible information and understand how they should be processed. Then, these bits of information are compiled in the form of documents and visual diagrams ( UML, ER, IA Garrett ) for Programmers to comprehend and follow. It is impossible to put down every detail of a project at the beginning, that is because designs usually change as the project moves on and by the time the project is finished it probably has little in common with the original specs. Despite that, the initial documentation could provide a development team, a good starting point and a big picture view.

In some companies the Sales and Marketing team have the superior authority over the IT department. Business people do what they can to write project specs which often contain technical and logical mistakes. IT managers who have little authority to discuss the specs with the Sales and Marketing team, often have to bend backward to find workarounds and hacks in order to implement a flawed spec. This leads into an inferior quality end product, and a frustrated team of IT professionals.

It doesn’t have to be that way!

Business Managers are human too, therefore capable of making logical mistakes in their inquires. Once those shortcomings are discovered by their programmers, System Analysts could discuss and resolve the issues with the business team using a simple, non-technical language.

System Analysts understand the Architecture behind different software solutions and ways that they can be customized. For example, System Analysts can recommend the most suitable web application to a business or organization, and also figure out ways to incorporate the power of multiple web applications together in order to solve a business problem.

They can identify the most efficient software in terms of speed, usability, cost of implementation, and maintenance. They can recommend suitable Hardware and Server Architecture, conduct Cost vs. Benefits studies, and perform risk assessment.
Education Background

A Business System Analyst often has a degree in Computer Science or Management of Information Systems. In addition to that, they often have done studies in Business, Marketing, or Accounting.

System Analysis also demands great abstract thinking abilities which is often considered to be a natural talent. Great System Analysts can view a project from a 10,000 feet perspective, as well as zooming into an atomic project detail.

Knowledge of Math and Logical thinking is absolutely necessary. Great verbal and writing abilities are also very important. Having good Communication skills is so essential that sometimes Business or English major graduates who happen to be technology hobbyists, find their way into the System Analysis market, but again you are always better off with someone who has done Programming and Software Architecture in the past.

As a systems analyst, you may design new systems, including both hardware and software, or add a new software application, to harness more of the computer’s power. Most system analysts work with specific types of systems-for example, business, accounting, or financial systems, or scientific and engineering systems-that vary within the organization and industry. Some system analysts are known as systems developers or systems architects.

Firms and candidates, in this industry, provide services related to the commercial use of computers, mostly on a contract basis, including custom computer programming services; computer systems integration design services; computer facilities management services, including computer systems or data-processing facilities support services for clients; and other computer-related services, such as disaster recovery services and software installation. They also work with Internet service providers, web search portals, and data-processing, hosting, and related services firm, government, manufacturers of computer and electronic products, insurance companies, financial institutions, and universities.

Required technical skills can include knowledge of PL/SQL, Oracle, SQL Server 2000, MS-Access – Crystal Reports, Windows Server 2000/2003, Windows 2000/XP, Visual Basic, Microsoft.net MS -Office; Experience with enterprise finance and/or HR software systems; combined with demonstrable proficiency in producing appropriate, effective documentation are considered prerequisites for success in this field. Preferably, a BS in Computer Science, MIS or related area supplemented by a minimum of 5 yrs previous experience and/or training, that includes computer programming, systems analysis, computer operations and hardware/software troubleshooting, can enable you to find challenging opportunities in this field.

Candidates with a 2-year degree, to a graduate degree, face the most favorable job-prospects and estimated growth is anticipated in the foreseeable future. Employment is expected to increase much faster than the average, as organizations continue to adopt increasingly sophisticated technologies.

As highly trained skilled knowledge workers and information technology experts, they will be in demand. Some of the main duties and tasks include: design and development of new hardware and software systems, incorporating new technologies, new areas of specialization or changes in technology is prevalent.

Typically seeking to work in offices or laboratories, in comfortable surroundings and even pursuing tele-commuting or self-employment, contract and project-work, working independently as contractors or consultants, are all viable options. A 40-hour work week is typical, but more and more weekend, evening and deadline-related, project-work, characterize the modern technology-driven environment. Other risks specifically to watch for, would be susceptibility to eyestrain, back discomfort, as well as hand and wrist problems such as carpal tunnel syndrome or cumulative trauma disorder.

The number of job openings currently exceeds the number of job seekers. Many new entrants are recent graduates

To enhance your professional knowledge and broaden your opportunities, consider:

• Keeping constantly updated in your specialty
• Improving interpersonal skills
• Setting standards and guidelines for safety/operations
• Learning business management
• Finding out about international networks

Also, be sure to check regularly for opportunities in the marketplace.

For systems analyst, programmer-analyst, and database administrator positions, many employers seek applicants who have a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information science, or management information systems (MIS). MIS programs usually are part of the business school or college and differ considerably from computer science programs, emphasizing business and management-oriented course work and business computing courses. Employers are increasingly seeking individuals with a master’s degree in business administration (MBA), with a concentration in information systems, as more firms move their business to the Internet.