Computer Systems Analysts

Computer systems analysts, sometimes called systems architects, study an organization’s current computer systems and procedures and design improvements to them. In doing so, these analysts help the organization operate more efficiently.

Duties

Computer systems analysts typically do the following:

• Consult with managers to determine the role of information technology (IT) systems in an organization
• Research different technologies to decide if they would increase the organization’s efficiency
• Analyze costs and benefits of IT systems and upgrades to help managers decide which, if any, to install
• Devise ways to add functionality to existing computer systems
• Design new systems by configuring hardware and software
• Oversee the installation and configuration of new systems and customize them for the organization
• Test systems to ensure that they work as expected
• Write instruction manuals and train the systems’ end users

Most computer systems analysts specialize in computer systems that are specific to their organization type. For example, an analyst might work with financial computer systems or with engineering computer systems. Computer systems analysts work with other IT team members to help an organization’s business leaders understand how computer systems best serve the organization.

Computer systems analysts use a variety of techniques, such as data modeling, to design computer systems. Data modeling allows analysts to view processes and data flows. Analysts conduct indepth tests and analyze information and trends in the data to increase a system’s efficiency.

Analysts calculate requirements for how much memory, storage, and computing power the computer system needs. They prepare diagrams for programmers or engineers to use when building the system. Analysts also work with these people to solve problems that arise after the initial system setup. Most analysts do some programming in the course of their work.

Analysts who focus on coding and debugging, in addition to their other tasks, may be referred to as programmer analysts. They also may design and update their system’s software and create applications tailored to their organization’s needs. For information about other occupations that do programming or testing, see the profiles on computer programmers and software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers.

In some cases, analysts who supervise the installation or upgrade of IT systems from start to finish may be called IT project managers. They monitor a project’s progress to ensure that deadlines, standards, and cost targets are met. IT project managers who also plan and direct an organization’s IT department or IT policies are included in the profile on computer and information systems managers.

Computer systems analysts held about 521,100 jobs in 2024. The largest employers of computer systems analysts were as follows:

Computer systems analysts may work directly for an organization or as contractors, often for an information technology firm. The projects that computer systems analysts work on usually require them to collaborate with others.

Work Schedules

Most computer systems analysts work full time.

Computer systems analysts typically need a bachelor’s degree to enter the occupation. Studying a computer science or information systems field is common, although not always a requirement. Some firms hire job candidates who have a degree in business or liberal arts along with relevant skills.

The median annual wage for computer systems analysts was $103,790 in May 2024.

Employment of computer systems analysts is projected to grow 9 percent from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations.

About 34,200 openings for computer systems analysts are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.