The rapid spread of computers amd computer-based technologies over the past two decades has generated a need for skilled, highly trained workers to design and develop the hardware and software systems and to determine how to incorporate these advances into new or existing systems. Although many narrow specializations have developed and no uniform job titles exist, this professional specialty group is widely referred to as computer scientists and systems analysts.
Computer scientists, including computer engineers conduct research, design computers, and discover and use principles of applying computers. Computer scientists and engineers may perform many of the same duties as other computer professionals throughout a normal workday, but their jobs are distinguished by the higher level of theoretical expertise they apply to complex problems and innovative ideas for the application or creation of new technology. Computer scientists employed by academic institutions work in areas from theory to hardware to language design, or on multi-discipline projects, for example, developing and advancing uses for artificial intelligence (AI). Their counterparts in private industry work in areas such as applying theory, developing specialized languages, or designing programming tools, knowledge-based systems, or computer games. Computer engineers often work as part of a team that designs new computing devices or computer-related equipment.
Far more numerous than scientists and engineers, systems analysts define business, scientific, or engineering problems and design their solutions using computers. This process may include planning and developing new computer systems or devising ways to apply existing systems to operations still completed manually or by some less efficient method. Systems analysts may design entirely new systems, including hardware and software, or add a single new software application to harness more of the computer's power.
Analysts begin an assignment by discussing the data processing problem with managers and users to determine its exact nature. Much time is devoted to clearly defining the goals of the system so that it can be broken down into separate programmable procedures. Analysts then use techniques such as structured analysis, data modeling, information engineering, mathematical model building, sampling, and cost accounting to plan the system. Once the design has been developed, systems analysts prepare charts and diagrams that describe it in terms that managers and other users can understand. They may prepare a cost-benefit and return-on-investment analysis to help management decide whether the proposed system will be satisfactory and financially feasible.
Analysts must specify the files and records to be accessed by the system, design the processing steps, and design the format for the output that will meet the users' needs. They must be sure that the system they design is user-friendly, so that it can be easily learned by the user and any problems encountered can be overcome quickly. Analysts also ensure security of the data by making it inaccessible to those who are not authorized to use it.
When the system is accepted, systems analysts may determine what computer hardware and software will be needed to set up the system or implement changes to it. They coordinate tests and observe initial use of the system to ensure it performs as planned. They prepare specifications, work diagrams, and structure charts for computer programmers to follow and then work with them to debug, or eliminate errors from the system. Some organizations do not employ programmers; instead, a single worker called a programmer-analyst is responsible for both systems analysis and programming. This is becoming more common with the development of Computer Assisted Software Engineering (CASE) tools which automate much of the coding process, making programming functions easier to learn. (The work of programmers is described elsewhere in the Handbook.)
One of the biggest obstacles to wider computer use is the inability of different computers to communicate with each other. Many systems analysts are involved with connecting all the computers in an individual office, department, or establishment. This networking has many variations; it may be called local area network, wide area network, or multiuser system, for example. A primary goal of networking is to allow users of microcomputers (also known as personal computers or PC's) to retrieve data from a mainframe computer and use it on their machine. This connection also allows data to be entered into the mainframe from the PC.
Because up-to-date information accounting records, sales figures, or budget projections, for example is so important in modern organizations, systems analysts may be instructed to make the computer systems in each department compatible with each other so facts and figures can be shared. Similarly, electronic mail requires open pathways to send messages, documents, and data from one computer mailbox to another across different equipment and program lines. Analysts must design the gates in the hardware and software to allow free exchange of data, custom applications, and the computer power to process it all. They study the seemingly incompatible pieces and create ways to link them so that users can access information from any part of the system.
Because the possible uses of computers are so varied and complex, analysts usually specialize in either business, scientific, engineering, or microcomputer applications. Previous experience or training in a particular area usually dictates the field in which they are most qualified to develop computer systems.
Systems analysts design ways to link computers through networks.
Computer scientists and systems analysts work in offices or laboratories in comfortable surroundings. They usually work about 40 hours a week the same as other professional and office workers. Occasionally, however, evening or weekend work may be necessary to meet deadlines.
Because computer scientists and systems analysts spend long periods of time in front of a computer terminal typing on a keyboard, they are susceptible to eye strain and back discomfort and hand and wrist problems.
Computer scientists and systems analysts held about 666,000 jobs in 1992. Although they are found in most industries, the greatest concentration is in computer and data processing service firms. Many others work for government agencies, manufacturers of computer and related electronic equipment, insurance companies, and universities.
A small but growing number of these workers are employed on a temporary basis. For example, a company installing a new computer system may need the services of several systems analysts just to get the system running. Because not all of them would be needed once the system is functioning, the company might contract directly with the systems analysts themselves or with a temporary help agency or consulting firm. The company would contract for their services on a temporary basis; temporary jobs usually are for several months at least, and some last up to 2 years or more.
There is no universally accepted way to prepare for a job as a computer professional because employers' preferences depend on the work being done. Prior work experience is very important. Many persons develop an area of expertise in their jobs which tends to make them more marketable to employers. For example, people move into systems analyst jobs after working as computer programmers. Another example is the auditor in an accounting department who becomes a systems analyst specializing in accounting systems development.
College graduates almost always are sought for computer professional positions, and, for some of the more complex jobs, persons with graduate degrees are preferred. Generally, a computer scientist working in a research lab or academic institution will hold a Ph.D. or master's degree in computer science or engineering. Some computer scientists are able to gain sufficient experience for this type of position with only a bachelor's degree, but this is more difficult. Computer engineers generally have a bachelor's degree in computer engineering, electrical engineering, or math.
Employers usually want systems analysts to have a background in business management or a closely related field for work in a business environment, while a background in the physical sciences, applied mathematics, or engineering is preferred for work in scientifically oriented organizations. Many employers seek applicants who have a bachelor's degree in computer science, information science, computer information systems, or data processing. Regardless of college major, employers look for people who are familiar with programming languages and have a broad knowledge of computer systems and technologies. Courses in computer programming or systems design offer good preparation for a job in this field.
Systems analysts must be able to think logically, have good communication skills, and like working with ideas and people. They often deal with a number of tasks simultaneously. The ability to concentrate and pay close attention to detail also is important. Although systems analysts often work independently, they also work in teams on large projects. They must be able to communicate effectively with technical personnel, such as programmers and managers, as well as with other staff who have no technical computer background.
Technological advances come so rapidly in the computer field that continuous study is necessary to keep skills up to date. Continuing education is usually offered by employers, hardware and software vendors, colleges and universities, or private training institutions. Additional training may come from professional development seminars offered by professional computing societies.
The Institute for Certification of Computer Professionals offers the designation Certified Systems Professional (CSP) to those who have 4 years of experience and who pass a core examination plus exams in two specialty areas. The Quality Assurance Institute awards the designation Certified Quality Analyst (CQA) to those who meet education and experience requirements, pass an exam, and endorse a code of ethics. Neither designation is mandatory, but either may provide a jobseeker a competitive advantage.
Systems analysts may be promoted to senior or lead systems analysts after several years of experience. Those who show leadership ability also can advance to management positions such as manager of information systems or chief information officer. Systems analysts with several years of experience may start their own computer consulting firms.
Computer engineers and scientists employed in industry can eventually move into managerial or project leader positions. Those employed in academic institutions can advance to become heads of research departments or published authorities in their field. Some start their own consulting firms.
Computer scientists and systems analysts will be among the fastest growing occupations through the year 2005. In addition, tens of thousands of job openings will result annually from the need to replace workers who move into managerial positions or other occupations or leave the labor force.
The demand for computer scientists and engineers is expected to rise as organizations attempt to maximize the efficiency of their computer systems. As international and domestic competition increases, organizations will face growing pressure to use technological advances in areas such as office and factory automation, telecommunications technology, and scientific research. Computer scientists and engineers will be needed to develop this new technology. In addition, the complexity associated with designing new applications is growing. More computer scientists will be needed to develop innovative and increasingly sophisticated systems.
As users develop more sophisticated knowledge of computers, they become more aware of the machine's potential and are better able to suggest operations that will increase their own productivity and that of the organization. The need to design computer networks that will facilitate the sharing of information will be a major factor in the rising demand for systems analysts. A greater emphasis on problem definition, analysis, and implementation also will guarantee a higher demand for systems analysts. In addition, falling prices of computer hardware and software are inducing more small businesses to computerize their operations, further stimulating demand for these workers.
Individuals with an advanced degree in computer science should enjoy very favorable employment prospects because the number of these degrees has not kept pace with the needs of employers. College graduates with a bachelor's degree in computer science, computer engineering, information science, or information systems should also experience good prospects for employment. College graduates with non-computer science majors who have had courses in computer programming, systems analysis, and other data processing areas as well as training or experience in an applied field should be able to find jobs as systems analysts. Those who are familiar with CASE and other programming tools will have an even greater advantage. Employers will be more willing to hire someone who can combine programming skills with traditional systems analysis skills.
Median annual earnings of systems analysts who worked full time in 1992 were about $42,100. The middle 50 percent earned between $32,000 and $52,200. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $25,200 and the highest tenth, more than $65,500. Computer scientists with advanced degrees generally earn more than systems analysts.
In the Federal Government, the entrance salary for recent college graduates with a bachelor's degree was about $18,300 a year in 1993; for those with a superior academic record, $22,700.
Other workers who use research, logic, and creativity to solve business problems are computer programmers, financial analysts, urban planners, engineers, operations research analysts, management analysts, and actuaries.
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Reprinted with Permission of U. S. Department of Labor