Computer Systems Analysts help devise efficient patterns of information flow from their source to the computer. They also define the computer process necessary to turn raw data into useful information, plan the distribution and use of the results, and test the working system in operation.

JOB DUTIES 

Computer Systems Analysts may:

Consult with engineering, scientific, or management personnel to define the problem

Study the problem and decide on the best techniques to solve it, such as cost accounting, sampling, and model building

Maintain, and monitor computer programs and systems, including organizing the installation of computer programs

Use object-oriented programming languages, as well as client and server applications development processes and multimedia and Internet technology

Coordinate and link the computer systems within an organization to increase compatibility and shared information

Expand or modify system to serve new purposes or improve work flow

Gather information needed to solve the problem

Prepare flow charts, diagrams, and record layouts

Recommend procedures that are to be used and prepare instructions for programmers

Write and interpret results in non technical language that customers or managers can understand

Recommend the data processing equipment to be used in new system installations

Recommend new equipment and/or software packages

Train staff to use appropriate programs

Manage company data

Click here to view Computer Systems Analysts at work.

The tools and equipment used may include:

OCCUPATIONAL SPECIALTIES

Data processing problems can be very complex and are found in many different fields. Some Computer Systems Analysts specialize in fields such as education, science, engineering, manufacturing, accounting, sales forecasting, market research, management information, or electronic data processing.

Computer Systems Analysts may specialize in these areas:

030.167-014 ELECTRONIC DATA PROCESSING SYSTEMS ANALYSTS study business problems and procedures to refine data and convert it to programmable form for electronic data processing.

003.167-010 ENGINEERING ANALYSTS analyze scientific, engineering and other technical problems and formulate mathematical or simulation models of the problem for solution by digital or analog computers.

003.167-010 COMPUTER-APPLICATIONS ENGINEERS define problems in science and engineering, draw data-flow charts to indicate steps in the solution, and use computers to solve the problems. They may also develop new techniques for solving problems and prepare articles for publication in scientific journals.

109.067-010 INFORMATION SCIENTISTS develop and design methods and procedures for collecting, organizing, interpreting and classifying information for input into a computer, and for retrieving specific information from the computer for management or clients.

In smaller installations, the functions of Systems Analysts and Computer Programmers might be combined.

In addition to learning about these specialties, you may also find it helpful to explore the following Career Exploration Scripts:

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WORKING CONDITIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

Computer Systems Analysts work closely with programmers, engineers, scientists, technicians, and top-level managers. They also work with clerical and non-supervisory personnel. They sometimes work as part of a team, but much of their work is done independently. Computer Systems Analysts usually work in offices that are comfortable, well lighted, and air-conditioned. They may also spend time in factories, machine shops, and accounting offices analyzing equipment, procedures, methods, and work loads.

Computer Systems Analysts usually work a 5-day, 40-hour week. Evening and weekend work may sometimes be necessary to finish projects. Systems Analysts consultants may charge a premium rate for hours worked in excess of 40 per week. Other Systems Analysts may receive 1 1/2 times their hourly rate for overtime, depending on the policies of their employer.

Out-of-town travel may be necessary for Computer Systems Analysts who work as consultants.

Computer Systems Analysts may join professional organizations such as the Association for Systems Management, the Data Processing Management Association, the Association for Computing Machinery, or the American Society for Information Science. Members of such organizations pay periodic fees. The Institute for Certification of Computer Professionals offers certification based on tests proving knowledge and skills in the field. Fees are charged.

You Should Prefer:

• Activities of a scientific and technical nature

• Activities which require creative imagination

• Activities concerned with the communication of ideas

• Activities which bring recognition or appreciation from others

• Activities which require self-motivation

You Should Be Able To:

• Perform a variety of duties which may change often

• Use step-by-step procedures to analyze and solve problems

• Rate information by using personal judgment or standards

• Understand the meanings of words and ideas

• Present information effectively in speech and in writing

• Perform arithmetical operations quickly and accurately

• See flat drawings or pictures as solid objects

• Work within precise limits or standards of accuracy

Math Problem You Should Be Able to Solve:

Show that the binary (base 2) representation of the perfect number corresponding to Mp consists of pl's followed by (p-1)O's.

Reading Example You Should Be Able to Read and Comprehend:

A record is printed at WRITE-RTN an one is added to the COUNTER 1, thus, COUNTER 1 is equal to 1 after one record is printed. Since COUNTER 1 is not yet equal to 5, WRITE-RTN is executed again. The second line is printed, and 1 is added to COUNTER 1. What is the current counter?

Writing Example You Should Be Able to Demonstrate:

Prepare a written analysis to a programming problem in a non-technical form for a manager.

Thinking Skill You Should Be Able to Demonstrate:

Should be able to demonstrate excellent analytical skills and be detail oriented in searching for and solving computer problems.

EDUCATION AND PREPARATION OPPORTUNITIES

NOTE: On-The-Job Training provided by the employer or a Certificate (program of up to one year of study beyond high school), an Associate Degree (two years of study beyond high school), a Bachelor's Degree (four years of study beyond high school) or a Master's Degree (five to six years of study beyond high school) may qualify a person for this occupation.

The following education and preparation opportunities are helpful in preparing for occupations in this Career Exploration Script:

***SCHOOL SUBJECTS***

0600 BUSINESS , 0700 CAREERS , 0900 COMMUNICATIONS , 1000 COMPUTERS , 1100 ECONOMICS , 1300 ENGLISH , 1600 FOREIGN LANGUAGE , 2200 MATH , 3300 TECHNOLOGY

***VOCATIONAL EDUCATION PROGRAMS***

There are no Vocational Education Programs related to this Career Exploration Script.

***POSTSECONDARY PROGRAMS***

040 DATA PROCESSING

Programs in Data Processing provide opportunities to gain the knowledge and skills needed in a wide variety of jobs dealing with the sorting, analyzing, and processing of information using computers and other electronic and mechanical equipment. Individuals who teach Data Processing at the secondary school level must have a Michigan Teaching Certificate.

Courses within Data Processing programs will vary from school to school but may include:

215 COMPUTER SCIENCE

Programs in Computer Science provide opportunities to gain the knowledge and skills needed in a wide variety of jobs dealing with the programming, analyzing, and operation of computers and other electronic and mechanical equipment. Individuals who teach Computer Science at the secondary school level must have a Michigan Teaching certificate.

Courses vary from school to school but may include:

Search for a College and/or Instructional Program

***APPRENTICESHIP OPPORTUNITIES***

There are no Apprenticeships related to this Career Exploration Script.

***MILITARY TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES***

Please check Military website at  http://www.myfuture.com.

COMPUTER SYSTEMS ANALYSTS

The military services use computers to store and process data on personnel, weather, finances, and many other operations. Before any information can be processed, computer systems must be set up, data entered, and computers operated. Computer systems specialists ensure information is entered, sorted, processed, and retrieved in a way that meets the military services' needs.

What They Do

Computer systems analysts in the military perform some or all of the following duties:

• Identify computer user problems and coordinate to resolve them

• Install, configure, and monitor local and wide area networks, hardware, and software

• Compile, enter, and process information

• Provide customer and network administration services, such as passwords, electronic mail accounts, security, and troubleshooting

Work Environment

Computer systems specialists work in offices or at computer sites on military bases or aboard ships.

Training Provided

Job training consists of 7 to 13 weeks of classroom instruction. Training length depends upon specialty. Course content typically includes:

• Use of computer consoles and peripheral equipment

• Computer systems concepts

• Planning, designing, and testing computer systems

Helpful Attributes

Helpful school subjects include typing and computer science. Helpful attributes include:

• Interest in work requiring accuracy and attention to detail

• Ability to communicate effectively

• Interest in working with computer equipment

Civilian Counterparts

Civilian computer systems specialists work for a wide variety of employers, such as banks, hospitals, retail firms, manufacturers, government agencies, and firms that design and test computer systems. They perform duties similar to those performed in the military. They may also be called network support technicians, computer operators, or data processing technicians. Most civilian computer systems analyst jobs require a four-year college degree.

Physical Demands

Computer systems specialists may sit and key information for long periods.

                  E-Learning Courses and Programs

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OPPORTUNITIES FOR EXPERIENCE AND METHODS OF ENTRY

Many employers prefer people who have some experience in computer programming. Although specific training may be given on the job, most employers agree that a bachelor's degree is the minimum level of education recommended for a Computer Systems Analyst.

            School-to-Work opportunities include:

informal apprenticeships

mentorships

job shadowing experiences

touring a local Computer Systems Analyst employer

internships

volunteer work with a Computer Systems Analyst employer

community service work with an agency

Because of the training needs, few opportunities for exploration exist. Summer or part-time work in computer centers may provide experience in computer operations which may lead to programming and then to systems analysis. Opportunities for experience are available in military service and postsecondary computer science and data processing programs. Most federal agencies participate in the Federal Co-operative Education Program, which offers work experience for this occupation and income while attending college.

To enter this occupation, Computer Systems Analysts may apply directly to employers or take civil service examinations. College placement offices may offer help in locating positions. Newspaper want ads and a local office of Michigan Works! may list job openings. In addition, you should access and search the Internet's on-line employment services sites such as:

You should also enter an electronic resume on these on-line services.

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EARNINGS AND ADVANCEMENT

Earnings of Computer Systems Analysts vary with the employer, the location, and the Analyst's experience, ability, and education.

Nationally, Computer Systems Analysts had earnings ranging from about $65,818 to over $80,271 per year in early 2009.  In 2008 the median wage was $61,568 per year.  The median yearly earnings of "all" workers in the U.S. were $37,544 in 2008. Banks and manufacturing firms pay the highest salaries.  Average salaries in Systems Analysis by level of responsibility in 2008 were:

Computer Systems Analysts in the federal government in 2009 had starting salaries of $27,026 or $33,477 per year, depending on their college records and qualifying test scores. The salaries of these federal government workers may be higher in some urban areas.

Computer Systems Analysts working for private employers in the Great Lakes States in early 2009 had average annual earnings of $75,934.  Most of these Analysts earned from $69,378 to $82,513, depending on experience and responsibilities.

Systems Analysts working for city governments in Michigan earned (early 2009):

Information Technology Analysts employed by the State of Michigan in mid 2009 had annual earnings ranging from $34,911 to $69,050.  Information technology managers earned from $54,037 to $86,360 per year.

Benefits usually include paid vacations and holidays; life, accident, disability, and hospitalization insurance; retirement plans; and sick pay. Other benefits for data processing personnel might include: profit-sharing plans, year-end bonuses, investment plans, and stock purchase plans. Managers may receive an automobile, membership in a club, use of recreational facilities, and stock options.

Systems Analysts begin as programmers in business, technical, or other computer related jobs. As junior Systems Analysts gain experience, they become Systems Analysts and may advance to positions with more responsibility. In recent years, they have also been promoted from their field into managerial positions.

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EMPLOYMENT AND OUTLOOK

Nationally, about 503,600Computer Systems Analysts were employed in 2006. Employment is expected to increase much faster than the average for all occupations through the year 2016.  Additionally, about 3.9% of them were self-employed. The industry distribution for Computer Systems Analysts looked like this:

To find employers, click Employer/Business Locator.

Demand should rise as computer capabilities and applications increase. Accounting systems, telecommunications networks, enterprise-wide applications, financial services, and scientific research are areas with high demand for these Analysts.

There are approximately 17,225 Computer Systems Analysts working in Michigan and primarily in urban areas. They were employed by firms that manufacture durable goods, data processing services firms, government agencies, colleges and universities, banks, transportation and utility companies, and insurance companies.

Employment is expected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations through the year 2016. An average of 780 annual openings is expected, with 320 due to growth and 460 due to replacement of those who retire or leave the labor force for other reasons. More openings will occur as workers change jobs or occupations.

The demand for Systems Analysts is expected to increase as users become more familiar with computer capabilities and expect greater efficiency and performance from their data processing systems. Advances in hardware and computer programs will result in expanded computer applications in manufacturing and small business and will also contribute to employment growth. Job opportunities will be best for Analysts who specialize. Those skilled in SAP, Oracle, PeopleSoft, Xml, Html, Java, Firewalls, Perl, Visual Basic and Visual C++; HTTP servers and search engine operations; and client/server applications development will be strongly demanded by employers.

MICHIGAN'S EMPLOYMENT OUTLOOK TO 2016

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SOURCES OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION 

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