Systems analyst

System analysts look at a company's IT structure to work out how to improve it.

In this guide

What you'll do

Day-to-day tasks

In your day-to-day work, you may:

  • define the business needs of your employer or client
  • create plans to improve or replace an IT system
  • work out the costs and time needed to make your plans work
  • work with programmers and developers to build the systems
  • test to find problems before the system goes live
  • train staff and write instruction manuals for new or upgraded systems

Working environment

You could work in an office, at a client's business or from home.

Career path and progression

With experience, you could:

  • get promoted to senior analyst
  • become a project manager
  • specialise in a particular field, such as finance or retail
  • set up your own business
  • work as a contractor or consultant

What it takes

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

  • knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
  • analytical thinking skills
  • to be thorough and pay attention to detail
  • to be flexible and open to change
  • the ability to work well with others
  • the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
  • excellent verbal communication skills
  • business management skills
  • to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications

Most relevant

  • Computer Science - Systems analysts need a deep understanding of how computer systems, software, and hardware work in order to evaluate a company's existing IT setup and recommend improvements. They work closely with programmers and developers, so understanding concepts like data structures, algorithms, and how software is built helps them communicate technical requirements effectively.
  • Business - Systems analysts must understand how a business operates so they can identify where IT systems can solve real problems or improve efficiency. A large part of the role involves defining business needs, managing stakeholders, and making sure technology solutions align with what the organisation actually requires.
  • Mathematics - Systems analysts use maths when working out project costs, timescales, and resource requirements for IT system upgrades or replacements. Logical and analytical thinking – core skills developed in maths – are essential for breaking down complex problems and designing structured solutions.
  • English Language - Systems analysts write detailed reports, project plans, and instruction manuals that need to be understood by both technical and non-technical audiences. They also train staff on new systems, so being able to explain complex ideas clearly and adapt their communication style is a key part of the job.

Also relevant

  • Economics - Systems analysts often need to build a business case for IT investments, weighing up costs against expected benefits. Understanding concepts like cost-benefit analysis, resource allocation, and how markets and organisations respond to change helps them make convincing recommendations.
  • Accounting - Systems analysts frequently work with financial data and budgets when planning IT projects and calculating return on investment. Some specialise in finance-sector systems, where understanding how financial records and processes work is particularly valuable.
  • Design and Technology - Systems analysts follow a structured design process – identifying a problem, researching options, creating a plan, building a solution, and testing it. This iterative, user-focused approach to problem-solving is very similar to the design cycle used in Design and Technology.
  • Psychology - Systems analysts need to understand how people interact with technology so they can design systems that staff will actually find easy to use. They also manage change within organisations, which means understanding how people respond to new ways of working and how to overcome resistance.

How to become

You could get into this job through:

  • a university course
  • an apprenticeship
  • working towards this role

You could do a degree in a relevant subject like:

  • computer science
  • information management systems
  • business information systems
  • maths and operational research

Some universities offer a degree in Information Technology Management for Business. This degree is Tech Industry Gold accredited.

Postgraduate courses

If you have a degree that's not in an IT or computer subject, you could complete a postgraduate course.

You should choose one which focuses on business and computer skills.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
  • a degree in any subject for a postgraduate course

More Information

You could do either an information systems business analyst higher apprenticeship or a digital and technology solutions degree apprenticeship.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship

More Information

You could start with any job in IT or business then build up your experience and qualifications while working.

You could train online or attend short intensive courses with IT training organisations. You'll need some computer and business skills.

Professional and industry bodies

You may find it helpful to get a business analysis certification to show your skills and expertise once you're working.

Further information

You can find out more about working and training in computing from The Chartered Institute for IT and techskills.

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