Business systems analysts help businesses use technology to make everything work better. If you want a cool job mixing computers and business, then this career path may be right for you!
However, as a business systems analyst, I have to say that this journey will be challenging. You need to learn many things to excel in this role.
So how to become a business systems analyst? I will share my adventure with you now. Let’s read on and be ready to be an excellent analyst!
Who Is a Business Systems Analyst (BSA)?
Business systems include everything from the hardware and software within a business. These systems refer to the ways people get jobs done using computers.
A business systems analyst looks at how an organization uses those systems. They also check if everything is going smoothly or if there are any problems.
To perform those tasks, the analysts must gather information about how their company works. Then, they find practical solutions.
Roles and Responsibilities
As a business systems analyst, I take care of computer systems. It sounds simple, right? But I have to handle numerous duties and responsibilities to cover.
Improve the systems
I check how the systems work now and find ways to improve them. To do this, I analyze the company’s operations. I used what I learned to upgrade the systems.
Design modifications
I also think of ways to change some components of the systems to make them run smoother. This task involves developing ideas for new computer programs and updates.
After suggesting the modifications, I have to consider the cost for them. They can work well, but fitting my company’s budget is also a must.
Recommend solutions
I run into issues with the computer systems sometimes. In such cases, I recommend changes. They can be new policies or more training programs. Sometimes, my company also needs more installations to fix the issues.
Write procedures
Another part of my job is to write down procedures. The step-by-step instructions can then help everyone use the computer systems correctly. When we are on the same page, our company can operate smoothly.
Declare project requirements
I also have to figure out what’s necessary for different projects. Often, I decide who should do what and which tools are required.
How to Become a Business Systems Analyst
Each business systems analyst may have their own experiences. The steps I show you below are what I have gone through to become a business systems analyst. If you do not know where to start to get into this career, check this path!
1. Obtain a degree
First, you need to finish high school and get a diploma. But most companies want their candidates to go to college or university.
So, try to earn a bachelor’s degree in relevant fields. Since this job involves business management and IT, you can choose both.
For example, if you have learned IT, you can easily get into the business analysis field. On the other hand, if you are not proficient in computer science, take IT courses first.
I took a degree in computer science. Then, I learned more about business administration. The knowledge from both fields helps me excel in this role.
Analytics is essential, too. You can learn about it in class. After that, you can make good decisions for your company.
2. Hone your skills
Knowledge plays a vital role, but it’s not enough. To many companies, technical and soft skills are even more important.
Technical skills
To be a business systems analyst, you must know a lot about computers and business. So be ready to work with programming languages and databases.
You also have to understand how technology can make your business better. For example, you want to create a website where people can buy your company’s products online. To do that, you need to use JavaScript, CSS, and HTML.
Moreover, you need mathematical skills to understand completed calculations and data sets. Your boss will ask you to find patterns and relationships. And based on them, you can recommend solutions for improvements.
Fortunately, you can develop your technical skills at school. The lessons you take there will help you build a strong foundation for your future career.
Soft skills
Your teachers can’t teach you soft skills. They are what you have to hone yourself. So, you should work on them right now.
- Analytical: You will find problems in the systems as a business systems analyst. Then, use your analytical skills to come up with solutions.
- Communication: You will also write and talk in a way that everyone can understand, even if they are not computer experts. I know it’s hard, but you have to do it as a part of your job.
- Problem-solving: This role has to deal with problems almost every day. In this case, you need to think of a clever way to solve them.
- Teamwork: You don’t work alone. Sometimes, you meet with clients and your teammates to develop the systems. So, collaboration is necessary.
- Time management: There can be different projects at a time. I’m often stressed out because of the deadlines, but time management helps me overcome those challenges. I believe that this skill is important for every job. And if you want to become a BSA, it may be more crucial.
3. Build an appealing portfolio
Think of a portfolio as a book that keeps all your achievements. It shows how good you are at certain things. And, they can be needed for a business systems analyst position.
When a company hires an employee, they want to see if an applicant can fit into their team. Once you apply for a job, the company sees your portfolio first. So make a good portfolio to impress them. If they like it, they will invite you to an interview.
The question here is how to build an appealing portfolio. I struggled with it, too. But I realized that employers don’t find the best candidates. Instead, they want somebody who matches their culture.
So, check the company’s profile and read their job descriptions carefully. Then, try to highlight the skills that they need in your portfolio.
Another tip is to keep your portfolio concise and accurate. If you lie, the interviewers can point it out.
4. Apply for internships
An internship is like trying out a job before you start working. If you want to be a good business systems analyst, the internship can be a precious chance to earn experience.
Companies help students and new graduates. Hence, you can look for internships and learn how the job works in the real world.
To start, decide what kind of internship you want. You can work part-time or full-time during your internship. Some companies pay you or give you credit for your work.
Next, think about what you want to do in the future. Then, you can pick the right internship that matches your dream.
Of course, the salary you receive during the internship is not high. However, do not aim for money. You can get much more than that.
5. Find a job in a related field
Now you have knowledge, skills, and experience (after the internship). It’s time to look for a job as a business system analyst.
To find a job, look in places where companies advertise jobs. You can search websites or ask your friends if they know of any job openings.
Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor are the best websites for job searching. Another idea is to visit the website of your favorite company. They may have a “Careers” section where they post job openings.
When looking for a job, read the job descriptions carefully, as I said earlier. These descriptions tell you what the job is about.
If a company likes your portfolio, they will call you for an interview. I was very nervous about my first job interview, so I failed. But after that, I have learned many things that help me shine in front of the interviewers.
I prepared for the interviews carefully. First, I learned about the company. I also found common questions that they might ask. Then, I showed off my skills. I talked about what I had done. It would be best to mention something specific.
You should focus on the job descriptions you have read. And during the interview, prove that you can handle all duties well.
6. Apply for promotions
After years of working, you can climb your career ladder. You are now ready for more important tasks.
To promote yourself, you need skills and knowledge. You should also consider earning certificates. They will give you an advantage over your competitors.
Salary and Job Outlook
The good news is that many companies need business systems analysts. Thus, there will be more job openings in the future.
Technology has developed dramatically. Since every organization uses computers to work, they need someone who can handle the systems. As a result, the demand is growing.
Business systems analysts can work in different types of companies and industries. Their salaries depend on the organization they work for, their experience, and location.
For example, entry-level analysts can earn about $55,865 per year. Those with one to four years of experience have an annual salary of around $71,981.
As they get more experience, the pay can go up. Business systems analysts who have been working for five years can make about $93,083. And people with over ten years of experience can earn up to $118,664 a year.
Moreover, some people are really good at this job. They can make more than $147,402 a year! But that salary range takes a lot of skill and experience.
What is the difference between a business analyst and a systems analyst?
A business systems analyst (BSA) and a business analyst (BA) sound similar. However, there are many differences between them. For example:
- Focus: While BSAs focus on making computer programs, BAs work on business plans and strategies.
- Background: BSAs know a lot about technology and software. On the other hand, BAs are good at money and business matters.
- Project size: BSAs work on smaller projects. Thus, there are not too many people involved. In contrast, BAs run bigger projects requiring many ideas and people.
- Duties: Technology is the core of BSA. Hence, these analysts spend time making solutions using technology. But, BAs are in charge of figuring out problems with their businesses.
FAQs
Does a business systems analyst need to code?
No. A business system analyst doesn’t need to code, although they work with computers. However, they spend a lot of time studying computer systems. Hence, you should know about programming.
Is business system analysis a good career?
Yes, being a business system analyst is a promising career. When working in this position, you can get paid well. Moreover, the demand for this job is high because companies need it to solve technical problems within their systems.
Is business systems analysis stressful?
Yes, but the stress level is lower than in many finance jobs. The answer may also depend on the sector and industry you work in. Your time management ability plays a role here, too.
Is a business analyst an IT job?
No. Some people confuse business analysts with business systems analysts, but they are different. A business analyst is not an IT job unless the company specializes in the IT industry.
Conclusion
To become a business systems analyst, you need to learn, hone skills, build a portfolio, and seek job opportunities.
Each step is a milestone in your life. Thus, try your best to bring you closer to your dream job. Hopefully, you can become a successful business system analyst.
Thank you for reading!