Computer Systems Analysts: Career Outlook for Computer Systems Analysts

Published Oct 31, 2009

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Computer systems analysts create networked computer systems for businesses and other organizations. The demand for skilled analysts is expected to remain strong as dependence on computers systems increase and as the systems become more sophisticated and complex.

Computer Systems Architects Overview and Career Outlook

Computer systems architects work with clients to determine an organization's needs. They then design computer systems to meet those needs. They often work as project managers to determine project costs and schedules. The computer systems architects also determine what hardware and software components are required. According to O*Net Online, www.online.onetcenter.org, median annual wages for computer systems architects were $75,150 as of 2008. Employment for this occupation is expected to grow at a faster than average rate.

Computer Systems Designers Overview and Career Outlook

Computer systems designers, or network designers, develop conceptual or physical network designs. They work with clients to determine their needs and then prepare network specifications and recommend technologies. The designers help determine the hardware and software requirements of the system and recommend security measures. O*Net Online reports median annual wages of $75,150 in 2008 for computer systems or network designers. Employment is projected to grow between 14% and 20% through 2016, according to projections made in 2006.

Quality Assurance Analysts Overview and Career Outlook

Quality assurance analysts test computer systems for defects and bugs. They are also responsible for devising the tests used to detect the problems. Quality analysts monitor the resolution process to ensure that the problem is fixed. Salary and job growth data is similar to that of other computer systems analyst positions.

Programmer Analysts Overview and Career Outlook

Programmer analysts update software or design custom applications within computer systems. They work with other computer systems analysts to determine a client's needs and implement or develop the appropriate software. Annual wages for programmers were $69,620 as of 2008, according to O*Net Online, which also projected a decline in job growth from 2006 through 2016.

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