IT Business Analyst: Career Outlook for IT Business Analysts

Published Nov 10, 2009

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Information technology business analysts play an important role in any organization. They may oversee the technological processes for product development, information systems, operations and finance. Those with information technology (IT) training can pursue careers as computer systems analysts , business systems analysts and information systems managers.

Computer Systems Analyst

Computer systems analysts should have bachelor's degrees in computer or business fields. Computer systems analysts solve computer hardware and software problems within private companies or government agencies. They also use technology to meet an organization's needs by developing computer systems for such purposes as communications and information storage. This may include devising new ways to apply existing resources to additional technological tasks. Computer systems analysts usually work 40-hour weeks in offices or laboratories. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, computer systems analyst employment is expected to increase 20% by 2018, much faster than average the rate of growth. The median annual income of computer systems analysts was $75,500 in May 2008, with those at the top end of the payscale earning more than $118,440.

Computer and Information Systems Manager

Computer and information systems managers are responsible for planning, coordinating, researching and facilitating computer practicalities for businesses. They oversee a team of systems analysts, support specialists, computer programmers and other technology-related workers. Performance directives include programming and systems design, installation and upgrade of hardware and software, implementation of internet and intranet sites and development of computer networks. Computer and information systems specialists may also secure careers as chief technology officers, management information systems directors and information technology directors. A bachelor's degree is adequate for these positions, but because these are higher-level management positions, a graduate degree or coursework toward a management degree is competitive; employers may especially prefer a Master of Business Administration background with technology as a core component. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, computer and information systems manager employment is expected to grow by 17% from 2008-2018, and the median annual salary for computer systems managers is $112,210 as of May 2008.

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