Network/Systems Analyst – Career Advice
Simon Thompson on A Network/Systems analyst works with programmers, designers and managers to help create IT systems. The work is hands-on from start to finish – after design and construction, network analysts test and evaluate the new systems before helping to train users.
Project management, people and problem-solving skills are important, as is programming knowledge. Network analysts don’t write code, but they commonly have experience using major computer languages such as SQL, C++, Visual Basic and Java.
The role is a senior one which requires a degree (usually computer science or business information) and some previous relevant experience, although it is possible to work your way through the IT ranks.
Systems analysis training comes with the job, and there are courses from the British Computer Society, e-Skills and the Institute of Information Systems to give you professional qualifications.
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British Computer Society (BCS)
Offering a chartered status for IT professionals, the BCS provides a number of qualifications towards continuing professional development. They also strongly support exchange of knowledge and expertise, and membership can get you access to this community of information.
Institute for the Management of Information Systems
Involved in information and research development to support IT professionals, the IMIS also offer a strong education network with links to universities and regarded qualification programmes that cover the spectrum, from providing a foot in the door to continuing professional development.
IEEE Computer Society
A division of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, the Computer Society provides access to a wealth of information developed through knowledge exchange and research allowing you to keep abreast of latest trends and developments. They also offer some training in addition to networking opportunities through conferences.
Institute of Analysts and Programmers
An organisation for those involved in the development, testing and installation of software and computer systems. Membership gets you access to an enterprising network of professionals, a number of professional services and advice and if you’re a consultant, or considering becoming one, your name goes on their register of consultants which can direct clients to you.
Cisco Networking Academy
Providing certification qualifications at a number of levels for students up to network professionals, Cisco’s Networking Academy portal is great for assessing what training is right for you and how to get involved.
e-Skills
The UK Sector Skills Council for IT, connecting you with the training and qualifications you need to get ahead in the industry.
National Skills Academy for IT
A portal to short and long courses, apprenticeship schemes and information about careers, standards and systems. Great for figuring out if network analysis is the job for you and how you can get there.
CompTIA
Offering certification to help you progress to management level and stay at the height of your game when you get there, CompTIA are a great association to be a part of during your network career.
Tech Republic
A blog resource aimed at connecting IT professionals with the latest news, trends and developments in the IT world allowing executives to make informed decisions and, for anyone interested in getting into the job, evidence of industry awareness.
Information Week
A digital magazine bringing the latest in IT news relevant to business and enterprise, offering IT professionals the opportunity to pick out the top new developments that could help the company they work within.
