Required Skills of the Systems Analyst

An analyst should have fundamental technology knowledge of:

• Computers / peripheral devices (hardware)
• Communication networks and connectivity
• Database and database management systems (DBMS)
• Programming languages (for example: VB.NET or Java)
• Operating systems and utilities

Technical Knowledge and Skills

Analyst uses tools:

• Software productivity packages (MS Office)
• Integrated development environments (IDEs) for programming languages
• CASE tools / coding, testing, and documentation support packages

Analyst understands SDLC phase techniques:

• Project planning
• Systems analysis, systems design
• Construction, implementation, systems support

Business Knowledge and Skills

Analyst must understand:

• Business functions performed by organization
• Organizational structure
• Organization management techniques
• Functional work processes

Systems analysts typically study business administration in college


People Knowledge and Skills

Systems analysts need to understand how people:

• Think
• Learn
• React to change
• Communicate
• Work (in a variety of jobs and levels)

Interpersonal and communication skills are crucial to:

• Obtaining information
• Motivating people
• Getting cooperation
• Understanding the complexity and workings of an organization in order to provide necessary support

Integrity and Ethics

Analyst has access to confidential information such as salary, an organization’s planned projects, security systems, etc.

• Must keep information private
• Any impropriety can ruin an analyst’s career
• Analyst plans security in systems to protect confidential information