Become aSystem Analyst

Becoming a System Analyst allows you to merge creativity with technology. If you love solving problems and are fascinated by the way technology impacts our lives, this could be the perfect role for you. Not only will you get to use the latest and greatest technology, but you’ll also have the satisfaction of seeing your solutions in action, improving efficiency and productivity across a variety of industries.

• Solve complex problems with innovative solutions.
• Enhance technology to make organisations efficient.
• Bridge the gap between business and tech.
• Shape future technology with analytical skills.

A System Analyst spends their day examining business problems and technological solutions. You will gather and analyse data on existing systems, figure out requirements for new systems, and work with both IT professionals and business managers to implement effective tech solutions. Your role is crucial in ensuring that investments in technology pay off by increasing efficiency and meeting the needs of users.

A Day in the Life of a Systems Analyst

Meet with Clients and Stakeholders
Discuss business requirements with clients and stakeholders to understand their needs and objectives.

Analyse System Requirements
Evaluate existing systems and identify areas for improvement or enhancement.

Design and Propose Solutions
Create technical blueprints or proposals for new software, databases, or IT systems that solve business problems.

Collaborate with Developers
Work closely with software developers to ensure that the proposed solutions are technically feasible and align with business needs.

Test and Validate Systems
Conduct tests and assessments to ensure that new systems or updates work as expected and meet user requirements.

Prepare Reports and Documentation
Create detailed documentation of system requirements, changes, and solutions to maintain transparency and guide future improvements

Diverse Industries Rely on System Analysts! From healthcare to finance, and from education to government, nearly every sector needs System Analysts to optimise their operations. Here’s a look at some key industries:

• Healthcare
  • Improving patient care with better data management systems.
• Banking and Finance
  • Enhancing security and customer service through efficient transaction systems.
• Education
  • Streamlining administration and learning platforms.
• Government
  • Upgrading infrastructure and public services.
• Technology
  • Innovating software and hardware solutions.
• Retail
  • Optimising inventory and sales systems.

Becoming a successful System Analyst requires a mix of technical and 21st century skills. Here are some of the key skills:

• Analytical thinking
  • To dissect complex processes and devise efficient systems.
• Communication
  • To convey technical information to non-technical stakeholders.
• Problem-solving
  • To navigate challenges and implement practical solutions.
• Technical proficiency
  • Understanding software and hardware basics.
• Project management
  • To oversee development from conception to completion.

The right STEM foundation can set you on the path to becoming a System Analyst. Here are some subjects to focus on:

• Computer Science
  • Understand the fundamentals of programming and system design.
• Mathematics
  • Essential for developing strong analytical skills.
• Business Studies
  • Offers insights into how organisations operate.
• Information Technology
  • Covers a broad range of tech-specific knowledge.
• Economics
  • Helps understand market trends and operational logistics.

System Analysts get to work on a variety of cool projects like designing a new app that helps kids learn better in school or creating a security system that keeps a company’s data safe from hackers. You might even analyse user data to help predict what the next big thing in technology might be!

Design a User-Friendly App
Conceptualise an app that simplifies complex business processes, making life easier for users and clients.

Create a Data Dashboard
Build an interactive data dashboard that visualises key metrics in real-time, helping businesses make informed decisions quickly.

Automate Routine Tasks
Develop automation scripts that save hours of manual work each week, increasing productivity across teams.

Innovate a New Payment System
Work with developers to design a seamless, secure online payment system that’s quick and easy to use.

Implement Cybersecurity Measures
Identify potential security vulnerabilities and design protocols to protect sensitive data from cyber threats.

Improve Customer Experience
Use analytics to understand user behaviour and suggest enhancements that make online platforms more intuitive and engaging.

Famous system analysts aren’t typically highlighted in the media like celebrities in entertainment or high-profile entrepreneurs – however – some Aussie’s have made significant contributions to technology and business through their analytical skills and systems development.

• Amelia Rosewater
  • A senior systems analyst at a leading Australian bank, Amelia is known for her expertise in digital transformation and fintech innovations.
• Natalie Bower
  • Working at a top consulting firm, Natalie is a systems analyst who specialises in healthcare systems, improving patient outcomes with innovative tech solutions.
• Jasmin Ng
  • At the helm of data analysis and systems integration in a major energy company, Jasmin leads projects that enhance sustainability and efficiency.
• Eliza McLeod
  • A digital transformation specialist, Eliza works for a government agency, leading efforts to modernise public services with cutting-edge technologies.
• Radia Perlman
  • Known as the “mother of the internet,” Radia Perlman’s work in developing robust network protocols has had a foundational impact on the internet’s system architecture. Her invention of the Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) was crucial in the development of today’s network bridges, showing a deep level of systems analysis and understanding that continues to influence system analysts.

Here are some personality traits that might help you succeed as a System Analyst:

• Curious
  • Always eager to learn more about how things work.
• Detail-oriented
  • Attentive to the specifics of complex systems.
• Adaptable
  • Comfortable with rapid changes in technology.
• Patient
  • Essential for solving intricate issues.
• Creative
  • Able to think out-of-the-box for innovative solutions.
• Cooperative
  • Works well in teams to integrate solutions across the board.

A great place to start is to think about going to University after high school, here is where you can start:

Bachelor of Information Technology or Computer Science: Start with a degree in Information Technology or Computer Science to build a strong foundation in programming, systems design, and data analysis. Curtin University in Western Australia offers a Bachelor of Information Technology that covers the essentials of systems analysis.

Bachelor of Business Analysis or Management Information Systems: For a business-oriented perspective, a degree in Business Analysis or Management Information Systems provides skills in project management, data analysis, and systems development.

Master’s in Systems Analysis or Data Science: A master’s degree in Systems Analysis or Data Science provides specialised knowledge in analytical methods and systems design. The University of Western Australia (UWA) offers a Master’s in Data Science that covers both technical and analytical aspects.

Graduate Certificate in Business Analytics or Systems Design: A shorter course like a Graduate Certificate from Edith Cowan University (ECU) can provide focused training in business analytics, systems design, and data management.

SPECIFIC DEGREES:

• Bachelor of Information Technology
• Bachelor of Computer Science
• Bachelor of Business Information Systems
• Bachelor of Software Engineering
• Bachelor of Data Science

Combining studies is a way of bringing multiple passions together into one career!

Tech and Business

By combining studies in technology with business management, you can gain a deeper understanding of how systems impact organisations. This combination equips you with both technical nous and strategic thinking, making you a valuable asset in any business environment.

Computer Science and Psychology

Understanding human behaviour is key to designing user-friendly systems. Pairing computer science with psychology provides insights into user experience (UX) and human-computer interaction (HCI), enabling you to develop systems that cater to users’ needs effectively.

Data Science and Mathematics

In an era driven by data, combining data science with mathematics offers a powerful skill set. This interdisciplinary approach equips you with the ability to analyse complex datasets and derive meaningful insights, essential for designing and optimising systems.

During your studies, you’ll pick apart into various aspects of system analysis, including:

• System Design
  • Understanding how to architect and design efficient systems to meet specific business needs.
• Data Analysis
  • Learning to analyse data to identify trends, patterns, and insights that drive decision making.
• Programming
  • Acquiring coding skills in languages like Java, Python, or SQL to develop and maintain systems.
• Project Management
  • Mastering project management methodologies to oversee system implementation and ensure project success.
• Communication Skills
  • Developing strong communication skills to effectively convey technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.

Gaining work experience is pretty important in the field of system analysis. Consider opportunities such as:

• Internships with IT Companies, Consultancies, or Corporates: Gain practical experience by interning with IT companies, consultancies, or large corporations such as Telstra or Commonwealth Bank of Australia, where systems analysis is critical to business operations.
• Participate in University Projects: Collaborate on projects led by university departments, such as those at Curtin University or UWA, which often involve partnerships with the tech industry.
• Part time Jobs: Look for part time roles that involve data analysis, software development, or IT support to build practical skills. You can do these while you are studying to improve your knowledge of data and systems generally.
• Volunteer Work: Offer your expertise to not for profit organisations or community projects that require system analysis assistance. Initiatives like the WiTWA Techtrails program are a great place to start if you are based in WA.

If university isn’t your preferred path, there are other ways of becoming a System Analyst:

• Certifications in Business Analysis and Data Analytics: Obtain certifications in Business Analysis or Data Analytics, available from platforms like Coursera or through institutions like Murdoch University.
• Workshops on Systems Integration and IT Solutions: Attend workshops or short courses on systems integration and IT solutions provided by organisations like Australian Computer Society (ACS).
• Join Professional Organisations: Connect with professional groups like Business Analysis Professionals (IIBA) Australia Chapter or Women in Technology WA (WiTWA) to stay informed about job opportunities and the latest trends.
• Attend Conferences and Seminars: Engage in events like the Australian Business Analyst Conference to learn from experts and network with other professionals.
• Microlearning Platforms: Explore online platforms like Udemy, Coursera, or Khan Academy, offering courses in system analysis, data analysis, and programming.On-the-Job Training: Seek beginner positions in IT companies or startups that offer extensive training in system analysis and related fields. Emphasise your willingness to learn and adapt in your applications.

A career as a Systems Analyst offers a broad mix of opportunities in various sectors, from finance and healthcare to tech and government. Let’s explore the different locations where your career as a Systems Analyst could take you!

Western Australia

In Western Australia, opportunities for System Analysts abound, especially in Perth’s thriving technology sector. From startups to established businesses, organisations seek skilled professionals to optimise their systems and drive innovation.

Australia

Across Australia, cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane offer a wealth of opportunities for System Analysts. Industries such as finance, healthcare, and government are prime sectors for system analysis roles, with demand continuing to grow.

Rest of the World

Globally, the demand for System Analysts is on the rise. Tech hubs everywhere present exciting prospects for system analysis professionals. Remote work options also enable System Analysts to collaborate on projects worldwide, expanding their career horizons.