31 Jan 2025

Career Stories

System Analyst or Business Analyst: 5 key job differences to help you choose right


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Systems Analysts and Business Analysts both play essential roles in the tech sector, each contributing to the improvement of the organisation’s processes. They begin by gathering, examining and then interpreting requirements, and data, which allows them to identify issues and propose tailored solutions. While both types of analysts often work together on projects, their areas of specialisation and day-to-day responsibilities set them apart. 

A Systems Analyst focuses on the technological infrastructure that supports the organisation’s processes and workflow. Conversely, a business analyst looks at various technical aspects, the organisation's productivity, efficiency and overall performance.

For aspiring analysts, understanding the key differences between these roles is crucial for achieving greater job satisfaction, planning for career development and maximising effectiveness.

What is a Systems Analyst?

A Systems Analyst’s role revolves around understanding and optimising technical systems to be in line with the priorities of the client or organisation. The first step towards creating solutions is through conducting a thorough requirements analysis, which often involves close collaboration with business stakeholders and regular testing of existing systems to identify and document the organisation’s needs and objectives.

Once the requirements are clear, Systems Analysts research and evaluate new technologies available in the market to determine how these can address the organisation’s needs and enhance current systems. This proactive approach enables them to propose and implement solutions effectively.

During the systems implementation phase, the Systems Analyst designs technical solutions according to the business needs and works in tandem with the development team to ensure the solution is executed as planned. This way, they can provide guidance and insight to the developers, and help them build efficient and practical system architectures.

The Systems Analyst is also deeply involved in training and troubleshooting. They guide users in adopting the new systems and provide ongoing support to address any issues or concerns.

In the HealthTech sector, a comprehensive understanding and appreciation of business processes, particularly within hospitals, is especially beneficial for a Systems Analyst’s success. Engaging with users across the organisation and staying updated on the latest industry trends ensures that technical solutions not only align with business objectives but also drive meaningful public and citizen outcomes, such as improved patient care and more efficient care delivery.

 

Required skills:

●     Proficiency in programming languages and cloud computing

●      Some expertise in relevant subject such as

○     Computer science

○     Information management systems

○     Information technology

○     Mathematics

●     Expertise in database management

●     Problem-solving skills

○     Analytical skills for identifying problems

○     Creative thinking skills for proposing solutions

●     Strong verbal and written communication skills for

○      Collaboration with stakeholders

○      Training users on systems and technology solutions

○      Troubleshooting

 

Career growth: 

Systems Analysts can progress to become Solution Architects or Technical Leads, which are more demanding on domain knowledge and technical expertise. 


For Systems Analysts interested in delving into the business aspects of the organisation and wishing for greater collaboration with other teams, they can transition to become Business Analysts. 


Alternatively, taking on Project Management roles enables existing Systems Analysts to both utilise their knowledge of business processes and create technical solutions, as well as manage teams effectively.

What is a Business Analyst?

Similarly, a Business Analyst needs to understand an organisation’s goals, challenges and processes before they propose effective solutions. However, Business Analysts focus on driving business growth, efficiency and profitability. They collaborate with stakeholders and carry out a stakeholder needs assessment, in addition to an in-depth process analysis, to gather and document their insights into the organisation’s complex issues.

The Business Analyst will also help the organisation determine the viability and effectiveness of proposed technological solutions and business processes in ensuring the organisation achieves its desired outcome.

Adopting a structured and systematic approach to analysing business processes and solving problems is crucial for a Business Analyst to fulfil their responsibilities. Examples of this approach include using data models and analysis frameworks.

Required skills:

      Strong verbal and written communication skills for

      Collaboration with stakeholders

      Ensuring all parties are aligned in understanding the needs of the organisation

      Problem-solving skills

      Adopt critical thinking to identify problems

      Having the creativity to propose solutions

      Detail-Oriented

      To Interpret large data volumes

      Some expertise in relevant subjects such as:

      Accounting

      Finance

      Business or economics

 


Career growth:

Business Analysts can progress to become Senior Business Analysts or Lead Business Analysts, where they will oversee and lead larger-scale projects, and provide mentorship and guidance to stakeholders.

They can also choose to specialise in systems, landing them the role of Business System Analysts. This role requires a stronger focus on integrating technical systems into the business and may involve system design and implementation.

 

5 Key differences

Here are the key differences between a systems analyst and a business analyst:

 

Aspect System Analyst Business Analyst
Primary Focus Concentrate on technical solutions involving development and information systems, including system design, technical implications and the delivery of efficient technical solutions

Prioritise understanding and addressing business needs, and processes

 

Propose solutions that enhance business value

Technical Expertise

Deep technical knowledge: programming, database management, system architecture

 

Strong grasp of software development methodologies and technical implementation processes

 

Focus on system design principles, technical requirements and software development lifecycles

Broader understanding of business processes and strategic initiatives

 

Possess basic technical knowledge but primarily focus on business analysis and facilitating communication

Core Responsibilities

Analyse existing systems and design technical solutions

 

Translate business requirements into detailed technical specifications

 

Oversee technical implementation, conduct system testing and provide ongoing support

Conduct business analysis and elicit/document business requirements.

 

Evaluate business processes and ensure IT solutions address business challenges and contribute to organisational success.

Stakeholder Engagement Collaborates more closely with development and technical teams to implement

Works extensively with business stakeholders to identify, clarify and document complex issues

 

Facilitate communication between business and technology teams

Works extensively with business stakeholders to identify, clarify and document complex issues

 

Facilitate communication between business and technology teams 

Industry Relevance and Examples

Skills are beneficial across various industries, with a focus on software development and IT:

●Enhancing an electronic medical record database

● Identify vulnerabilities within systems and collaborate with cybersecurity professionals to implement safety protocols

Skills are beneficial to industries where optimising business processes is important:

●Streamlining patient care processes

●Analysing market trends and financial risks

●Optimise supply chain management

 

Conclusion - Choosing the Right Path for You

Whether you are drawn to technology or business, both roles play a crucial part in shaping organisational success. However, here are some factors to consider to help you find the right fit.

  1. Technical strengths and preferences: If you are passionate about technology, enjoy innovation and excel in technical problem-solving, the role of a Systems Analyst could be a great fit.

  2. If you enjoy analysing business challenges, driving strategic decisions and collaborating across teams, a Business Analyst role might suit you best.

  3. Long-term Career Aspirations: For those aiming to pursue long-term careers in software development, IT consulting or technical leadership roles, starting as a Systems Analyst can provide a solid foundation in technical skills and pave the way for advancement into roles such as Solutions Architect or Technical Lead. 

Alternatively, if your career aspirations involve driving business transformation, leading strategic initiatives or progressing into executive-level positions, beginning as a Business Analyst can provide valuable experience in business analysis, stakeholder management and strategic decision-making, leading to roles such as Project Manager, Business Consultant or Chief Information Officer (CIO).


Begin your journey with Synapxe

Synapxe offers exciting opportunities in the HealthTech sector, where innovation intersects with healthcare to improve patient outcomes and transform public healthcare. As the national HealthTech agency, Synapxe is committed to connecting people and systems to power a healthier Singapore. Explore opportunities as a Systems Analyst or Business Analyst with us now!

 

 

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