Tuesday, December 15, 2009

Assignment1(SAD)

Based on your learnings of chapter 1, identify and discuss some characteristics you have as a good Systems Analyst.

                                                                                                                            

Our first topic for our reporting in SAD1 was all about The World of the Information Systems Analyst. To expand its thought, we will first discuss the main topic, Information Systems Analyst. What does it really mean?

Well, according to my research and to what I have understand from the reporters, A systems analyst designs new IT solutions to improve business efficiency and productivity. The work might be for an external client or an internal client. When an analyst works closely with the client, they can examine existing business models and flows of data, discuss their findings with the client, and design an appropriate improved IT solution. They produce outline designs and costing of new IT systems, specifying the operations the system will perform, and the way data will be viewed by the user, present their design to the client and, once it is approved, work closely with the client team to implement the solution.

Why do you think the world needs a good systems analyst?

            I think the world needs a Systems analyst because it has a big role for us. In the world of technology, it helps a lot it is responsible for the operating system and associated subsystems. Provide system-level support of multi-user operating systems, hardware and software tools, including installation, configuration, maintenance, and support of these systems. Identify alternatives for optimizing computer resources.

Who can be an analyst?

            Our facilitator asked us, who can be a systems analyst? The Accountant or the IT professional? The directly replied the IT professional. We first think that IT professionals have an edge because of their edge in computing and technological skills, but he explained that its not the course or profession your taking to.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILL REQUIREMENTS

  1. Basic reading, writing, and arithmetic skills required. This is normally acquired through a high school diploma or equivalent.
  2. Knowledge of company supported hardware, software and operating systems to include configuration and connectivity. Ability to investigate and analyze information and to draw conclusions. Ability to plan, implement, test, and troubleshoot system software. Ability to develop systems solutions for operational problems. Knowledge of computer flow charts and of programming logic and codes. Ability to determine computer problems and to coordinate hardware and/or software solutions. Ability to communicate technical guidance and instruction to users on the use of PC and/or mainframe applications and systems. Ability to write technical instructions in the use of programs and/or program modifications. Records maintenance skills. Knowledge of computer security procedures and protocol. Knowledge of federal copyright laws as they pertain to the use of computer software. Ability to determine the nature of computer hardware and systems software problems, and to communicate technical guidance and information to users. Ability to learn and support new hardware, software and operating systems. Work with users requires interpersonal skills. This is normally acquired through a combination of a Bachelor's Degree and three to five years of programming and/or system analysis experience.

Responsibilities may require evening and weekend work in response to needs of the systems being supported.

Here are some attributes for an analyst:(by: H M Winning)

An analyst is looking for ways to improve the business through technology yet cautioning against letting technology lead the business by the nose.

An analyst is looking to accomplish specific tasks or meet specific measurable goals within a reasonable time frame.

An analyst is as comfortable in a technology driven meeting as in a business planning session. The analyst listens to business problems and goals and translates that information into potential solutions - sometimes using technology and sometimes not - technology is not always the answer.

An analyst can also serve as project manager, test coordinator, "keeper of the budget" or data analyst.

Analysts are not "yes" people - if the idea sucks we'll tell you. Analysts hate waste and are usually budget bears.

An analyst is always conducting research - either for their business or for their own personal education. An analyst understands that business and technology are forever changing therefore, an open view of the world must be maintained in order to see the potential in any situation.

An analyst understands that no one vendor or software is the solution to all evils. The newest rage today will fade into the distance next week.

We'd always rather build than buy but understand that buying - for the most part - is usually the way to get more of what the business really needs in a more reasonable time frame (at lease in my world).

An analyst is not and cannot be political. An analyst is a cynic and optimist at the same time.

An analyst knows "bodies" don't get a project done - people do. An analyst gets to know the developers on a project and finds the unique talent that each one has - and uses it to run a better project.

 

Analysts believe that they are pretty smart - if we don't no one else will. We chuckle softly at people who don't understand that we really do have a grand vision and believe that anything can be accomplished if you knock all the crap out of your processes.

Analysts are always looking at least 5 years out.

An analyst thinks becoming management is a step down. Analysts aspire to be highly paid experts.

 

In my side:

Do I have the characteristics of a good systems analyst?

What are those?

As what I have read in the internet, here are some characteristics of good Systems Analyst:

-The system analyst must be able to communicate in writing and orally.

-The analyst must easily get along with people.

-The analyst must be a good listener and be able to react to what people say.

-The analyst must be knowledgeable of technology. The analyst is not expected to know the intricacies of programming, but a decent general knowledge of concepts and terms is essential.

-The analyst must be knowledgeable of business. The analyst is not expected to be an expert in business but a decent understanding of the client's world is required.

The Skills

Analytical Skills ability to see things as systems, identify, analyze, and solve problems in an optimal way for a specific organization.

Technical Skills ability to understand how computers, data networks, databases, operating systems, etc. work together, as well as their potentials and limitations.

Management Skills include organization’s recourse management, project management (people and money), risk management, and change management.

Communication Skills include effective interpersonal communication (written, verbal, visual, electronic, face-to-face conversations, presentations in front of groups), listening, group facilitation skills

 

Can I take the responsibility?

I know to my self that some day I can be what I want to be… I think I can communicate through written and orally terms.

I can also develop my Analytical and Technical skills…

When it comes to Management and Communication Skills I think I can manage … (char lang)…

I can easily get along with people too… it can be a good start for an employee to have a good relationship with their office mates so that they can learn more…

 

 

References:

http://it.toolbox.com/blogs/business-analyst/analyst-qualifications-9881

http://www.interlabs.bradley.edu/NSF_CCLI/Demo/class6/module6/Skills_Pretest_Posttest_Answers.pdf

 

Blog blog blog…

http://shecapacillo.blogspot.com

 

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