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What does a systems analyst/developer do?

Updated January 8, 2025
7 min read
Quoted expert
Dr. Phoebe McLaughlin

A systems analyst/developer plays a significant role in developing and maintaining the efficiency of computer systems in an organization. They are responsible for conducting inspections and assessments, managing various computer systems, conducting research and analyses to determine the weaknesses and strengths of existing systems, identifying the company's needs, and developing solutions against problem areas. Moreover, through their research findings, a systems analyst/developer generates detailed reports that help companies make decisions in solving issues and optimizing systems operations.

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Systems analyst/developer responsibilities

Here are examples of responsibilities from real systems analyst/developer resumes:

  • Create a completely automate and fully manage desktop management solution.
  • Develop an online record management system using HTML, CSS, ColdFusion, SQL and XML.
  • Work as application developer, develop tested and support the application in a UNIX client server environment using Java technology.
  • Work with AIX and LINUX utility tools.
  • Utilize CSS for a consistent presentation of web site.
  • Redesign the company website using PHP and used JavaScript for client validations.
  • Write XML and XSL codes to create reports to support the survey questionnaires.
  • Deliver DDE, code and test a z/OS XML schema server retriever and parser.
  • Support enhancement of CAMBAR distribution system (order entry, inventory and WMS UNIX).
  • Used VISIO, UML use case/sequence/entity/network diagrams and various high, low level design documents.
  • Develop CSS style sheets and build framework for a casino points-base incentive program to improve functionality.
  • Design, document and develop code to meet business requirements on the UNIX back office platform.
  • Perform extensive technical evaluation of the first generation IRMA board used in PC to mainframe communications.
  • Assist in creation and development of materials for SDLC training project to standardize all computer system projects.
  • Work with the front end development of the project using advance features available in HTML 5 and CSS3.

Systems analyst/developer skills and personality traits

We calculated that 7% of Systems Analyst/Developers are proficient in Java, C++, and Web Application. They’re also known for soft skills such as Analytical skills, Communication skills, and Creativity.

We break down the percentage of Systems Analyst/Developers that have these skills listed on their resume here:

  • Java, 7%

    Worked as application developer, developed tested and supported the application in a UNIX client server environment using Java technology.

  • C++, 7%

    Collaborate with various provisioning systems and develop C++ applications to enable order provisioning.

  • Web Application, 5%

    Credited for building new COBOL applications, which directly interfaced web applications to maintain systems preserving data integrity.

  • JavaScript, 5%

    Performed GUI enhancements on the client side (HTML, JavaScript) and modifications on NT Server side.

  • HTML, 4%

    Created and maintained Internet applications using Cold Fusion and HTML to store information in an Access database and an Oracle database.

  • Data Warehouse, 4%

    Research and design data warehouse applications for user data privacy protection.

Most systems analyst/developers use their skills in "java," "c++," and "web application" to do their jobs. You can find more detail on essential systems analyst/developer responsibilities here:

Analytical skills. One of the key soft skills for a systems analyst/developer to have is analytical skills. You can see how this relates to what systems analyst/developers do because "analysts must interpret complex information from various sources and decide the best way to move forward on a project." Additionally, a systems analyst/developer resume shows how systems analyst/developers use analytical skills: "developed the jers fundraising database by using ms access and vba, ms excel used to develop the database. "

Communication skills. Another soft skill that's essential for fulfilling systems analyst/developer duties is communication skills. The role rewards competence in this skill because "analysts work as a go-between with management and the it department and must explain complex issues in a way that both will understand." According to a systems analyst/developer resume, here's how systems analyst/developers can utilize communication skills in their job responsibilities: "utilize web services and wcf for the communications between different systems. "

Creativity. Another skill that relates to the job responsibilities of systems analyst/developers is creativity. This skill is critical to many everyday systems analyst/developer duties, as "because analysts are tasked with finding innovative solutions to computer problems, an ability to “think outside the box” is important." This example from a resume shows how this skill is used: "involved in the documentation of technical specifications of the sales and inventory project. "

See the full list of systems analyst/developer skills

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Systems Analyst/Developer Resume
Systems Analyst/Developer Resume
Systems Analyst/Developer Resume
Systems Analyst/Developer Resume
Systems Analyst/Developer Resume
Systems Analyst/Developer Resume
Systems Analyst/Developer Resume
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Systems Analyst/Developer Resume
Systems Analyst/Developer Resume
Systems Analyst/Developer Resume
Systems Analyst/Developer Resume
Systems Analyst/Developer Resume
Systems Analyst/Developer Resume
Systems Analyst/Developer Resume
Systems Analyst/Developer Resume

Compare different systems analyst/developers

Systems analyst/developer vs. Developer analyst

A developer analyst is an individual who is responsible for building application requirements and develops database solutions that allow operational efficiency and user-friendly tools. Developer analysts are required to develop a detailed definition of business solutions that can include database design, data flow, and transaction processing requirements. They work with other teams to design and implement a web application that manages internal processes and can result in increased productivity. Developer analysts are also required to perform integration tests for various vendors for services that are according to business requirements and testing processes.

We looked at the average systems analyst/developer salary and compared it with the wages of a developer analyst. Generally speaking, developer analysts are paid $16,800 lower than systems analyst/developers per year.Even though systems analyst/developers and developer analysts are distinct careers, a few of the skills required for both jobs are similar. For example, both careers require java, c++, and web application in the day-to-day roles and responsibilities.

These skill sets are where the common ground ends though. The responsibilities of a systems analyst/developer are more likely to require skills like "javascript," "windows," "microsoft sql server," and "business processes." On the other hand, a job as a developer analyst requires skills like "eclipse," "sql server," "architecture," and "visualization." As you can see, what employees do in each career varies considerably.

Developer analysts tend to make the most money working in the finance industry, where they earn an average salary of $99,277. In contrast, systems analyst/developers make the biggest average salary, $109,809, in the finance industry.On average, developer analysts reach similar levels of education than systems analyst/developers. Developer analysts are 0.9% more likely to earn a Master's Degree and 0.4% more likely to graduate with a Doctoral Degree.

Systems analyst/developer vs. Analyst lead

The duties of an analyst lead depend on one's line of work or industry of employment. Typically, their responsibilities revolve around performing research and analysis, coordinating with different departments to gather leads and data, reviewing findings, and producing reports and presentations for the stakeholders and other higher-ranking officials. Through the results, an analyst lead can provide advice, devise strategies for business optimization, spearhead the development of processes, identify strengths and weaknesses, and offer recommendations on areas in need of improvement. All of this is done while in adherence to the company's vision and mission.

On average, analyst leads earn a $6,815 lower salary than systems analyst/developers a year.Only some things about these jobs are the same. Take their skills, for example. Systems analyst/developers and analyst leads both require similar skills like "java," "html," and "data warehouse" to carry out their responsibilities.

In addition to the difference in salary, there are some other key differences worth noting. For example, systems analyst/developer responsibilities are more likely to require skills like "c++," "web application," "javascript," and "windows." Meanwhile, an analyst lead has duties that require skills in areas such as "analytics," "project management," "customer service," and "excellent interpersonal." These differences highlight just how different the day-to-day in each role looks.

Analyst leads earn a lower average salary than systems analyst/developers. But analyst leads earn the highest pay in the finance industry, with an average salary of $110,488. Additionally, systems analyst/developers earn the highest salaries in the finance with average pay of $109,809 annually.In general, analyst leads achieve similar levels of education than systems analyst/developers. They're 1.5% more likely to obtain a Master's Degree while being 0.4% more likely to earn a Doctoral Degree.

What technology do you think will become more important and prevalent for systems analyst/developers in the next 3-5 years?

Dr. Phoebe McLaughlin

Professor of Statistics & Mathematics Assistant Chair of Mathematics Programs Actuarial Science and Statistics Program Coordinator, University of Central Missouri

It seems like more employers will start looking away from expensive programs like SAS and transition towards free, open-source programs like R. The SOA is already starting to do this with their PA exam, we expect employers are going to follow.

Systems analyst/developer vs. Database analyst

A database analyst is primarily responsible for devising strategies on how to handle a company's collection of data and information. Typically, they are in charge of designing and implementing databases, evaluating existing ones, and providing recommendations for improvement. They are also responsible for testing, populating, and maintaining databases, ensuring accuracy and timeliness. Furthermore, as a database analyst, it is essential to adhere to the company's policies and regulations, all while coordinating with other administrators to make sure that all processes align with the company's goals.

On average scale, database analysts bring in lower salaries than systems analyst/developers. In fact, they earn a $16,419 lower salary per year.systems analyst/developers and database analysts both have job responsibilities that require similar skill sets. These similarities include skills such as "java," "javascript," and "html," but they differ when it comes to other required skills.

There are many key differences between these two careers, including some of the skills required to perform responsibilities within each role. For example, a systems analyst/developer is likely to be skilled in "c++," "web application," "web services," and "css," while a typical database analyst is skilled in "database management," "database design," "c #," and "data quality."

Database analysts earn the highest salary when working in the manufacturing industry, where they receive an average salary of $94,516. Comparatively, systems analyst/developers have the highest earning potential in the finance industry, with an average salary of $109,809.When it comes to education, database analysts tend to earn similar degree levels compared to systems analyst/developers. In fact, they're 2.2% less likely to earn a Master's Degree, and 0.8% less likely to graduate with a Doctoral Degree.

Systems analyst/developer vs. Senior developer analyst

A senior developer analyst specializes in software development and analysis. It is their duty to design and develop systems and applications according to the company's needs, perform research and analysis to identify the strengths and weaknesses of current systems, come up with solutions in problem areas, and perform risk assessments. They may also perform installations and modifications, review data, and conduct regular maintenance checks, execute repairs as needed. Furthermore, as a senior developer analyst, it is essential to lead and encourage teams to reach goals, all while enforcing the company's security protocols and regulations.

Senior developer analysts tend to earn a lower pay than systems analyst/developers by an average of $5,928 per year.According to resumes from systems analyst/developers and senior developer analysts, some of the skills necessary to complete the responsibilities of each role are similar. These skills include "java," "c++," and "web application. "Each job also requires different skills to carry out their responsibilities. A systems analyst/developer uses "windows," "microsoft sql server," "application development," and "business processes." Senior developer analysts are more likely to have duties that require skills in "c #," "sql server," "power bi," and "visualization. "senior developer analysts enjoy the best pay in the finance industry, with an average salary of $117,026. For comparison, systems analyst/developers earn the highest salary in the finance industry.The average resume of senior developer analysts showed that they earn similar levels of education compared to systems analyst/developers. So much so that theyacirc;euro;trade;re 2.8% more likely to earn a Master's Degree and more likely to earn a Doctoral Degree by 0.3%.

Types of systems analyst/developer

Updated January 8, 2025

Zippia Research Team
Zippia Team

Editorial Staff

The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.

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