Analyze science, engineering, business, and other data processing problems to implement and improve computer systems. Analyze user requirements, procedures, and problems to automate or improve existing systems and review computer system capabilities, workflow, and scheduling limitations. May analyze or recommend commercially available software.

Main Activities / Routine Tasks

1. Recommend new equipment or software packages. IT equipement constantly get upgraded to it is incumbent on the Computer Systems Analyst to qualify the need for more up todate equipment and software packages such that the organization keeps running 

2. Define the goals of the system and devise flow charts and diagrams describing logical operational steps of programs.

3. Train staff and users to work with computer systems and programs.

4. Coordinate and link the computer systems within an organization to increase compatibility and so information can be shared.

5. Determine computer software or hardware needed to set up or alter system.

6. Assess the usefulness of pre-developed application packages and adapt them to a user environment.

7. Read manuals, periodicals, and technical reports to learn how to develop programs that meet staff and user requirements.

8. Supervise computer programmers or other systems analysts or serve as project leaders for particular systems projects.

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

10. Confer with clients regarding the nature of the information processing or computation needs a computer program is to address.

11. Develop, document and revise system design procedures, test procedures, and quality standards.

Main Activities

Interacting With Computers : Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.

Processing Information : Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.

Analyzing Data or Information : Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.

Getting Information : Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.

Documenting/Recording Information : Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.

Making Decisions and Solving Problems : Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.

Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work : Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.

Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates : Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.

Key Knowledge Areas

Computers and Electronics :  A Computer System Analyst should be well versed with the knowledge relating to the use of computers and its peripherals 

Engineering and Technology : Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.

Administration and Management : Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.

Computer Programming : Although Computer System Analysts are not directly involved in programming, knowledge of foundamental computer programming principles is relevant in connecting with computer programers

Key Abilities

Problem Sensitivity : The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing there is a problem.

Near Vision : The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).

Oral Expression : The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.

Written Comprehension : The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.

Oral Comprehension : The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.

Inductive Reasoning : The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).

Visualization : The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are moved or rearranged.

Top Skills

Judgment and Decision Making: Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.

Complex Problem Solving: Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.

Critical Thinking :Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.

Mathematics : Using mathematics to solve problems.

Reading Comprehension : Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents

Operations Analysis : Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design

Active Listening : Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

Communication Skills :Talking to others to convey information effectively.