Difference between systems analyst and business analyst

Many people face the problem of distinguishing between a systems analyst and a business analyst. Differences in some organizations do not exist. In other companies, the comparison is almost an insult. Depending on the company or company, there are many variations. Job title isn't the only thing by which these two separate roles can be compared. The problem occurs when the title is not conclusive. A business systems analyst or systems business analyst can be one, the other, or both. The job description is the only way to know when this is happening. There are differences, though.

A systems analyst is able to look at a program or utility and see the code. They can go in and decide where changes need to be made. They can integrate new data into existing software for the company. A systems analyst can collect data and turn it into usable code for a new project or program. They can identify where problems may lie in the code itself. They can rewrite this code to mitigate the problem. Typically, a systems analyst may consult with other IT members on technical jargon foreign to business stakeholders. Stakeholders are just grateful that the job is done.

The business analyst position is more complex. He must understand not only how IT talks but also how stakeholders talk. A business analyst is more than just a person. He or she serves as a liaison between management and information technology. A business analyst will be able to look at all aspects of a company and discover the underlying reasons for system failure. He or she may not be able to write the code to fix the problem. A business analyst can at least come up with a concept of what the code is supposed to do.

A business analyst can retrieve reports and data from IT and convert them into reports necessary to develop a project or program plan. There may be a need for additional development and research from another department that the business analyst can do. This does not mean that a systems analyst cannot do the job. Systems analyst is more black and white when it comes to this. A true business analyst is more creative and more flexible.

A business analyst is someone who can bring teams together to focus on project outcomes. He or she will be good at chairing meetings to present information in easy-to-understand language. Business analysis will be motivational, a driving force behind the project plan.

Both are essential for good business. A systems analyst may need a business analyst to determine what is needed for the code to work effectively. A business analyst needs a systems analyst to make the code work effectively. By working together, these two can achieve great things for the company. There are some companies that cater to one person or a team of people. It's all a matter of choice. Trying to choose between the two can cause a bigger headache than simply hiring two people, or one qualified person, to accomplish the task at hand.