IT business systems analysts are skilled technology professionals who act as a bridge between a company’s business and IT operations. They help make sure technology solutions and business goals are aligned so that an organization can best meet the needs of its customers and employees.

Responsibilities for this in-demand role include overseeing the installation and testing of new systems and translating user and systems requirements into functional IT specifications. What does this look like in practice? Here’s one example:

  • Company leaders want to upgrade the firm’s customer relationship management (CRM) system, so they ask the IT business systems analyst to assess how to proceed.
     
  • The analyst then meets with individual business users and teams across various departments, including sales, marketing and customer service, to explore the needs of these stakeholders and the problems they have with the current setup.
     
  • The analyst also communicates with the IT team to understand any technical and cost constraints involved in building a better system. 
     
  • The IT business systems analyst pulls all this information together and creates a comprehensive set of requirements for the new CRM, which they then present to the management team for review and approval.
     
  • Once the requirements are finalized, the analyst works with the IT team and external vendors to evaluate different CRM solutions, decide which one is the best fit for the company’s needs and deploy it.

Demand for tech-savvy problem solvers who can handle projects like the one described above is on the rise as businesses become only more reliant on technology for their everyday business operations — and much more. So, if an IT business systems analyst role sound appealing to you, now is a good time to explore this career path.

What kind of salary could you earn as an IT business systems analyst? Consult the latest Robert Half Salary Guide for insight.

Skills and qualifications for IT business systems analysts

If you want to succeed as an IT business systems analyst, you’ll need to bring a strong mix of technical expertise and business acumen to the job. Here’s an overview of some of the core skills and qualifications that employers typically look for when hiring for this critical role:

Education 

You’ll need at least a bachelor’s degree in a field like computer science, information systems or business administration. For technically challenging positions involving complex business systems, you may need a master’s degree in computer science with a specialization in business systems. An MBA could also be advantageous, as it demonstrates you can understand and solve business problems from a broader perspective.

Analytical skills

IT business systems analysts are responsible for analyzing data, processes and systems to identify problems with current solutions and opportunities for improvement. So, if you’re aiming to become an IT business systems analyst, you must be able to analyze complex information, draw conclusions and present your findings clearly and concisely.

Technical expertise

Depending on the industry and role, you may need to have a strong understanding of various systems and technologies, such as database querying and manipulation tools like SQL and Oracle, business intelligence software such as Tableau and Qlik Sense, and CRM software like Salesforce and Dynamics. 

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Market awareness

To work on a contract basis as an IT business systems analyst, you’ll need to be a fast learner who can quickly acquire a deep understanding of an employer’s business and industry. 

For example, if you’re tasked with implementing a new inventory management system for a retail company, your first job would be reviewing industry trends and market data to determine best practices for inventory management in the retail sector.

Communication skills

You must communicate proficiently with people at all levels of an organization. This includes explaining in plain language technical concepts for nontechnical audiences and collaborating effectively with project managers, IT professionals and external vendors.

Project management

As an IT business systems analyst, you’ll likely be involved in several phases of  project. So, you must be prepared to take responsibility for managing initiatives from start to finish. This includes setting timelines, coordinating with team members and ensuring that projects stay on track and meet their goals. Successful project management for this role also requires adapting to changing circumstances and adjusting processes as needed on the fly. 

Ready to search for IT business systems analyst jobs?

If you’re interested in becoming an IT business systems analyst, consider searching our current job listings for roles that might interest you. You can also get in touch with the recruiters at Robert Half. They can help you find on-site or remote work opportunities that align with your skills, experience and career goals.