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Steve Tabet
Professor Mohammad A Rob
June 16, 2004
ISAM 4635.01 M,W 3pm Research Paper # 1
Research Assignment #1
A systems Analyst must have a significant amount of knowledge, skill and ability in
order to perform the job satisfactorily. The systems analyst needs to be familiar with the
needs of the client as well as the needs of the programmer(s). To explain in the simplest
terms, the systems analyst is like an interpreter who translates the business needs of the client
to the computer programmer(s). To be an interpreter the system analyst must have excellent
communication skills, and broad business knowledge to be familiar with various business
processes as well as a good understanding of how the programmer develops systems.
Before the systems analyst gives instructions to the programmer the analyst must be
certain that he or she knows exactly what the client wants. To do this the systems analyst
must first create a system design and create blueprints or diagrams to illustrate to the client
how the system will function. For example if someone needs a custom home built they first
need to hire an architect. The person will then explain to the architect what size, shape and
style they would like their new home to be. The architect then draws up the blueprints and
makes sure the person who will be paying for the project is satisfied before any construction
begins. Well it works the same way when someone needs a system developed. The systems
analyst is like the architect of the system and the programmer(s) are like the construction
crew.
Some of the essential functions performed by the systems analyst include but are not limited
to:

Interviewing the people who will be using the system and observing job activities in
order to determine what information is processed and how it is processed.

Collaborate with the clients and programmer(s) regarding the nature of the
information processing or computation functions a computer system is to perform.

Assess the feasibility of the system with regards to needs of the client, taking into
consideration factors such as cost and time constraints versus the benefits to
determine if the project should be implemented or terminated.

Define the goals of the system and create flow charts and diagrams describing logical
operational steps of programs.

Design computer systems using structured analysis, data modeling and information
engineering.

Determine and recommend any computer hardware and or software needed to set up
or revise computer systems.

Provide clients with technical support and maintenance.
In order to perform the essential functions listed above the incumbent should have the
following knowledge, skills and abilities:

Computers- Knowledge of computer hardware and software, including
applications and programming.

Business Processes- A general knowledge of the type of business the system will
facilitate.

Communication- Knowledge of the English language including spelling of
words, rules of composition and grammar as well as speaking, reading
comprehension and active listening skills. Any other language(s) in addition to
English is a definite advantage.

Mathematics- Knowledge of arithmetic and other mathematical areas like
algebra and calculus and their applications.

Customer and Personal Service- Knowledge of processes and principles for
providing services including; meeting quality standards, needs assessment and
evaluating customer satisfaction.

Complex Problem Solving- Understanding complex problems and being able to
develop solutions.

Troubleshooting- The ability to identify errors and correct them.

Quality Control Analysis- The ability to effectively test and inspect products,
services or processes to evaluate quality and performance.
The nature of the job can be stressful at times if the systems analyst is under pressure to
complete a project given limited time constraints. However, the working conditions are
usually comfortable and the job is not physically demanding. The incumbent works indoors
in a climate controlled environment and usually spends most of the time sitting down.
Systems analysts usually work with a high degree of independence and autonomy. The job
carries significant responsibility. The systems analyst is able to use his or her creativity in
making decisions.
The job of a systems analyst can be very rewarding both emotionally and monetarily.
A sense of accomplishment is often achieved when the analyst completes a project and is
able to see the results of his or her work effort. The median annual salary in the United
States for a systems analyst is $62,900. The top 10% make over $90,000 a year and the
lowest 10% earn nearly $40,000 a year. Here in Texas the Median annual salary is a little
lower than the national average at $57,900. The number of jobs as a systems analyst in
the United States is projected to rise 60% from the years 2000 to the year 2010.
Sources used to write this Paper:
 www.onetcenter.org
 www.careerjournal.com
 www.preferredjobs.com
 http://jobguide.thegoodguides.com
 www.prospects.as.uk