Most companies have IT analysts responsible for integrating multiple systems, collecting user feedback, and managing the company’s IT system to meet the needs of different teams.
IT analysts typically work with management to make recommendations and identify the goals to improve company productivity, security, and output. They also troubleshoot and use best practices to ensure network security.
This article explores what IT analysts are, their roles and responsibilities in every organization, and the skills needed.
What is an IT analyst?
IT or computer systems analysts are tasked with building and monitoring information technology systems. They also manage projects and handle upgrades, hardware, and software installations.
As an IT analyst, you must ensure that these systems operate effectively and be prepared to offer solutions to operational issues.
Often, IT analysts are responsible for creating and examining the functional specifications and must constantly check in with the stakeholders to understand better what to do.
Roles of an IT analyst: What does an IT analyst do?
While the specific responsibilities of an IT analyst may differ depending on the role and the organization they work in, the following are their common responsibilities:
1. Recommends IT upgrades
An IT analyst’s major role in every organization is to identify and evaluate new technologies that can help the organization increase its efficiency and productivity.
While these technologies do not have to be new or popular, what matters is that businesses have access to the equipment and resources they need for their business operations.
Hence, a good IT analyst should have a broad knowledge of available options to increase business operations.
2. Helps to solve IT problems
In the business world, many IT-related problems, such as system breakdowns, cyber-attacks, etc., can arise due to unforeseen circumstances. So, it is the job of an IT analyst to figure out and fix these problems.
Other responsibilities of IT analysts include:
- Create IT systems that work well and meet business and technology needs
- Coordinate the creation and implementation of technology solutions
- Integrate multiple systems and reconcile the demands of different teams
- Get feedback from end users on how well the system works
- Plan and oversee projects, such as upgrades or installing new hardware or software
- Give advice and technical training
- Stay up to date on changes and trends in technology, etc.
What skills are required of an IT analyst?
In today’s competitive world, it is important to have a wide range of technical and soft skills to have a successful career in tech, generally. The following are some of the skills required of an IT analyst:
1. Knowledge of IT products and services
As an IT analyst, it is imperative to be aware of the most productive and efficient IT systems available in the company.
This will help you to craft a concise proposal that will get support from all parties involved.
You can confidently take on any challenge if you know your way around the computer industry inside and out.
2. Software maintenance and development
Organizations count on IT analysts to apply their software development expertise to resolve technical issues and aid in troubleshooting. Hence, as an IT analyst, one of your core skills should be programming.
3. Ability to analyze and interpret data
As an IT analyst, you will every day face a wide variety of challenges, both technical and non-technical.
You should develop strong analytical skills by applying logic and reason to improve your problem-solving skills.
Other skills include:
- Good project management skills
- Knowledge of databases and system security
- Technical know-how
- Problem-solving skills
- Good communication skills
Job requirements for IT analysts
Even though it may be hard to become an IT analyst, it is not impossible. Before applying for an IT analyst role, you should get as much experience as possible.
Check out the list below to see the requirements to land a job as an IT analyst:
1. Education
While a bachelor’s degree in computer science or information technology is preferred, some employers will hire IT analysts with no degree but the necessary skills and experience.
2. Relevant non-technical skills
It is important that you can think outside the box to engage with company stakeholders effectively. You must also demonstrate your analytical, soft, and communication abilities.
3. Up-to-day knowledge
As an IT analyst, you should watch for emerging technological trends useful when formulating business proposals and planning initiatives.
Career paths for IT analysts
There are a wide variety of jobs available in IT analysis. The following are some of the most prominent paths you can take to become an IT analyst:
1. Computer systems analyst
IT analyst is also known as a computer systems analyst. As a computer system analyst, your main role is to offer designs, solutions, and advice on IT systems.
Your organization will only succeed if you can use your combined IT and business expertise to create initiatives to get it closer to its goals.
2. Information security analyst
An information security analyst’s job is to protect computers and networks from harm. As a security analyst, you are responsible for preventing unauthorized access to sensitive information on servers.
Also, you do things like ethical hacking to find security holes and add safeguards to keep unwanted intruders out.
3. Business analyst
For those interested in a career in information technology, business analysis is all about building the company’s IT infrastructure.
As a team, you work together to improve the company’s technology and maintain smooth operations.
Unique to the role of a business analyst is the necessity for strong programming abilities in SQL to handle the job’s data analysis and database administration responsibilities.
How to become an IT Analyst
Even though no two IT analysts take the same route, attaining the below milestones, however, is the best approach to streamline your experience:
1. Develop relevant IT skills
Whether you enroll in a four-year university or a shorter coding Bootcamp, you will be expected to acquire IT knowledge and expertise.
Hence, you should pick a learning route you believe will most effectively build upon your current skillset.
2. Apply for internships
Internships are a great way to gain experience in a subject and exposure to various projects.
Internships are an excellent way to get hands-on experience in your field of study and gain valuable skills that will serve you well in your future career.
3. Take certification exams
Depending on your chosen career, you can take certification exams to earn additional credentials.
However, some certification examinations are only available to people with a specific level of work experience. So, depending on your level, you must look for the right one.
FAQs
Can you work as an IT analyst without a degree?
Yes, you can still work as an IT analyst without a degree.
However, certain employers may favor candidates with bachelor’s degrees in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related.
Do you need a lot of experience to work as an IT analyst?
Yes, you do. Hence, after learning the necessary skills, you should take internships to amass as many experiences as possible.
What are other job titles for IT analysts?
IT analysts are called systems analysts, application analysts, IT consultants, IT coordinators, IT business analysts, or business systems analysts.
However, these roles may be slightly different from one another, but they all share a core set of responsibilities and skill requirements.
Conclusion
An IT analyst collaborates with the developers to design and implement technology solutions and review existing IT systems and internal processes.
A career in IT analytics is ideal for those who enjoy learning about and working with cutting-edge technologies and computer systems. It is their responsibility to keep themselves abreast of technological trends and developments.
I hope you found this article helpful. You can also read about what IT stands for in the computer industry.
Thanks for reading.
