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297
Computer Scientists and Systems Analysts

(D.O.T.  030.062-010, .162-014, .167-014; 033.167-010, .262-010; and
109.067-010)

Nature of the Work

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.

Working Conditions

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.

Employment

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.

Training, Other Qualifications, and Advancement

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.

Job Outlook

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.

Earnings

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.

Related Occupations

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.

Sources of Additional Information

   Further information about computer careers is available from:

   Association for Computing Machinery, 1515 Broadway, New York, NY 10036.

   Information about certification as a computer professional is
available from:

   Institute for the Certification of Computer Professionals, 2200 East
Devon Ave., Suite 268, Des Plaines, IL 60018.

   Information about certification as a Certified Quality Analyst is
available from:

   Quality Assurance Institute, 7575 Dr.  Phillips Blvd., Suite 350,
Orlando, FL 32819.