How much could I expect to earn?
The work
Skills required
Opportunities

Systems analysts, also known as business analysts, are IT specialists brought in by companies to assess their IT systems and processes. They identify problem areas, make recommendations for improvements and design more efficient systems that meet the needs of the business.

Their work can range from integrating a telephony and computer network in a call centre to re-structuring customer account databases for a bank. Part of their job is to make sure that their solutions are flexible enough to evolve as the business develops (known as 'future-proofing').

Systems analysts use a variety of computer assisted software engineering (CASE) tools and programming techniques in their work but their overall duties typically involve:

• Drawing up specific plans for a modified or replacement IT system.
• Carrying out feasibility assessments of proposals.
• Working closely with programmers and developers to build the system.
• Overseeing installation and testing.
• Correcting problems ('bugs') before the final version is rolled out.
• Providing staff training and instruction manuals for the new or upgraded system.

Analysts work in a wide range of sectors as well as IT, including finance, local and central government, manufacturing, construction and engineering, and public bodies such as universities and health authorities.

Figures are intended as a guideline only.

Newly qualified systems analysts can expect to earn between £19,000 and £24,000 a year.
Experienced analysts earn between £25,000 and £45,000.
Senior analysts involved in project management can earn over £50,000 a year.

As a systems analyst, you will work 37 to 40 hours a week. The intense nature of the work, which often involves deadlines and emergency problem solving, can often lead to overtime and weekend work.

Your job will be office-based, either at your own company or on-site with the client. You may have to travel and work away from home, depending on the client's location.

As a systems analyst, you will need:

• An extensive knowledge of hardware, software and programming.
• A creative approach to problem-solving.
• The ability to gather and interpret information.
• Excellent communication skills.
• The ability to explain ideas clearly to technical and non-technical colleagues and clients.
• Good negotiating skills.
• Good teamworking skills.
• The ability to work under pressure and to deadlines.
• The ability to plan and manage a project.
• A sound appreciation of wider business demands.
• The ability to work to a budget.
• A willingness to keep up to date with developments in technology.

Opportunities are good with systems analysts employed across the whole range of commerce and industry, public services, utilities, defence and research. The greatest number of job opportunities are found with companies in London and the south-east.

You can also find work overseas, with UK-based organisations, foreign companies or multinationals.

Your options for career progression will normally involve promotion to senior analyst jobs, although movement between companies is quite common to achieve this. You may have the option to become a specialist analyst in a particular field, for example finance or security.

Further options include moves into project management and strategic business planning. With sufficient experience, you can become self-employed and work on a contract or consultancy basis.