Does anyone know what the difference between a system analyst and a business analyst? Is there really a difference between them? Or both have the same functionality but have different terms depending on where they worked? For sure, they are two different functions and professions.
It is not easy to declare that the two professions are different. If just take from the different name can not determines whether they are same or different professions. Because in one place, system analysts and business analysts can be the same person. What can distinguish only the description of each other’s work. Depending on where the place, whether in the company, corporation, organization or elsewhere.
Generally, system analysts are those who are able to create and read the program or utility and making code. They can access the program and determine where changes should be made. They can enter new data into the existing programs to provide benefits for the company. Systems analyst can collect data and turn it into code that can be used for a new project or program. They can identify problems that might arise from the use of existing codes. As a solution, they can rewrite the code to fix the problem. System Analysts work with IT staff to explain technical terms or technical codes that are used and what are the benefits to management or shareholders.
While a business analyst has a more complex position within the company. Business analyst must not only be able to understand the workings and terms used by IT staff, but also ways of working and terms used by stakeholders. Business Analyst could have the capability and the scope is more extensive than others. Business analyst will act as liaison between management and IT. A business analyst must be able to see all aspects of the company and able to detect whenever the running system was a failure. It is true that a business analyst is not possible to write code to fix the problem. But at least, a business analyst can come up with concepts and code which should be done.
A business analyst can retrieve reports and data from IT staff and turn it into reports needed to develop a project plan or program. Development and further research conducted by business analysts may be required by other departments, and only business analysts who able to do it. It does not mean that a system analyst can not do the job of business analysts. It is just that a system analyst working with the black or white of the system standard when there is a problem, while a business analyst is more creative and more flexible. Business analysts able to collect cooperation from members of teams with a focus on project outcomes. Business Analyst will be able to present information in a language that is easier to understand rather than technical language. A Business Analysis actually is a motivator and become the driving force behind the success of a project or program.
Once again, it does not mean that a business analyst better and more important than a system analyst. Both are important for the success of a business. The systems analyst may need a business analyst to determine what is needed for code can work effectively. While the business analyst needs the systems analyst to create code that works effective. The key is how the two professions can work together because they will define and achieve great things for the company.