Information Systems Analysts and Consultants

HOW TO GET THERE

Typical pathway

A typical path starts in secondary school with math, computer studies, business, and communication courses. After graduation, many people complete a college or university program in computer information systems, computer science, information technology management, or a related field. Some begin with a diploma, certificate, or degree, while others enter after gaining practical experience in IT, business analysis, support, testing, or related office work. Early jobs may build skills in talking with clients, documenting needs, testing systems, and improving processes. Requirements can vary by employer and by the specific role.

THE WORK

What you may do

Legacy duties

• Information systems business analysts and consultants confer with clients to identify and document requirements, conduct business and technical studies, design, develop, integrate and implement information systems business solutions, and provide advice on information systems strategy, policy, management, security and service delivery.
• Systems security analysts confer with clients to identify and document requirements, assess physical and technical security risks to data, software and hardware, and develop policies, procedures and contingency plans to minimize the effects of security breaches.
• Information systems quality assurance analysts develop and implement policies and procedures throughout the software development life cycle to maximize the efficiency, effectiveness and overall quality of software products and information systems.
• Systems auditors conduct independent third-party reviews to assess quality assurance practices, software products and information systems.

SKILLS TO BUILD

Skills used in this Career