The systems analyst uses analysis and design techniques to solve business problems using information technology. They understand the business needs and technical requirements, evaluate solutions, and implement the chosen solution. A systems analyst requires knowledge of computers, networks, databases, programming languages, and operating systems as well as business processes, organizational structure, and how people work and communicate. They use tools like databases, IDEs, and CASE tools to develop system specifications and employ techniques such as project planning, requirements modeling, and database design.

1. The System Analyst
Systems Analysis and Design

2. Systems Analysis and Design
• Systems Analysis
– The process of understanding and specifying in
detail what the information system should
accomplish
• Systems Design
– The process of specifying in detail how the many
components of the information system should be
physically implemented

3. The Systems Analyst
• The systems analyst is a business professional
who uses analysis and design techniques to
solve business problems using information
technology.

4. The Systems Analyst Approach to Problem Solving
Research and understand the problem
Verify that the benefits of solving the
problem outweigh the costs
Define the requirements of solving
the problem
Develop a set of possible solutions

5. The Systems Analyst Approach to Problem Solving
Decide which solution is best and
make a recommendation
Define the details of the chosen
solution
Implement the solution
Monitor to make sure that you obtain
the desired results

6. Fundamental Knowledge
• A systems analyst should understand the
fundamentals of the ff:
– COMPUTERS
– Devices that interact with computers
– Communication Networks
– Databases and DBMS
– Programming Languages
– Operating Systems and utilities

7. Tools to help develop analysis and design
specifications of a completed system
• Some tools used in system development
– Software packages such as MS Access, Oracle
Developer and IBM Data Studio
– Integrated Development Environments (IDEs) such
as Sun ONE Studio for Java or Microsoft Visual
Studio
– CASE Tools
– Program code generators

8. Techniques – strategies for completing
specific system development activities
• Examples of techniques include:
– Project Planning
– Cost-benefit analysis techniques
– Interviewing techniques
– Requirements modeling techniques
– Architectural Design techniques
– Network Configuration Techniques
– Database Design Techniques

9. Business Knowledge and Skills
• The analyst needs to know the ff:
– What business functions does an organization
perform?
– How are organizations structured?
– How are organizations managed?
– What type of work goes on in organizations?

10. People Knowledge and Skills
• It is critical that the analyst understand how
people
– Think
– Learn
– React to change
– Communicate
– Work

11. INTEGRITY AND ETHICS
• System Analysts are expected to uphold the
highest ethical standards when it comes to
private proprietary information they might
encounter on the job.

12. Types of Technology
• Desktop Systems
• Network desktop systems
• Client-server systems
• Large-scale centralized mainframe systems
• Systems using internet, intranet and extranet
technology

13. Typical Job Titles
• Programmer analyst
• Business Systems Analyst
• System Liaison
• Systems Consultant
• System Support Analyst
• Systems Designer
• Software Engineer
• System Architect
• Webmaster
• Web Developer