Mike Hatfield says you have to enjoy challenges if you are going to work as an information systems analyst because every job is a lot like putting together a jigsaw puzzle, often without a full idea of what it is supposed to look like. Mr. Hatfield is an information systems analyst with Nicom IT Solutions in Halifax. (DARREN PITTMAN / Staff)

Nature of the Work:
People in these jobs research, develop, and implement plans and procedures for information systems development. They develop business solutions for information systems and provide advice on a wide range of information systems issues.

Information systems business analysts and consultants meet with their clients to discuss the clients - requirements, which can range from technical issues to design, development and implementation of information systems business solutions.

Systems security analysts assess physical and technical security risks to data, software and hardware, and develop policies, procedures and contingency plans to prevent security breaches and minimize their effects.

Information systems quality assurance analysts develop and implement policies and procedures at each stage of software development. They work to maximize the efficiency, effectiveness and overall quality of software products and information systems.

Systems auditors review quality assurance practices, software products and information systems.

Skills:
To work in these occupations, you should have good analytical and problem-solving skills. You must have good numerical ability and an understanding of mathematics, and be methodical and precise. Accuracy and good proofreading skills are required to detect, locate and avoid errors in code. Oral and written communication skills are required to advise clients effectively. As these fields are constantly changing, you should always be prepared to update your knowledge and skills on a regular basis.

Employment Requirements:
To work in these occupations you will require either a bachelor's degree in computer science, computer systems engineering, software engineering or business administration, or a college diploma in computer science.

Computer programmer experience is usually required.

Work Prospects:
Employment of information systems analysts and consultants is expected to grow in the coming years as organizations continue to adopt and integrate new technologies. Falling prices of computer hardware and software should continue to induce businesses to expand their computerized operations. Employment growth will also be seen in computer system design and related technologies.

The expansion of electronic commerce in both the public and private sectors should fuel demand for these occupations.

Overall, employment prospects for this occupation are rated as good in the coming years.

Labour Market Information