The Modern Systems Analyst 
                                   Introduction
            The chapter will address the following questions:
               What business trends and drivers are influencing the careers of 
                 systems analysts?
               How can you prepare yourself for a career as a systems or 
                 business analyst?
               What does the future hold for systems analysts?
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               The Modern Systems Analyst 
                       Who Should Read This Book
            What is an Information System?
                An information system is an arrangement of people, data, 
                  processes, interfaces, networks, and technology that interact for 
                  the purpose of supporting and improving both day-to-day 
                  operations in a business (sometimes called data processing), as 
                  well as supporting the problem solving and decision making needs 
                  of management (sometimes called information services).
            What is a Computer Application System?
                A computer application is computer-based solution to one or 
                  more business problems and needs. One or more computer 
                  applications are typically contained within an information system.
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                         The Modern Systems Analyst 
                                     Who Should Read This Book
                     The Systems Analyst - A Key Resource
                         Many organizations consider information systems 
                            and computer applications as essential to their 
                            ability to compete or gain competitive advantage.
                         Information has become a management resource 
                            equal in importance to property, facilities, 
                            employees, and capital. 
                         All workers need to participate in the development of 
                            these systems and applications – not just the 
                            computer and information specialists.  
                         But one specialist plays a special role in systems and 
                            applications development, the systems analyst.
                                 A systems analyst(s)  facilitates the development of 
                                  information systems and computer applications.
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               The Modern Systems Analyst 
                       Who Should Read This Book
            The Systems Analyst - A Key Resource
                The systems analyst performs systems analysis and design.
                    Systems analysis is the study of a business problem domain 
                     for the purpose of recommending improvements and specifying 
                     the business requirements for the solution.
                    Systems design is the specification or construction of a 
                     technical, computer-based solution for the business 
                     requirements identified in a systems analysis. (Note:  
                     Increasingly, the design takes the form of a working 
                     prototype.).
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               The Modern Systems Analyst 
                The  Systems Analyst As A Modern 
                        Business Problem Solver
            Why do businesses need Systems Analysts?
               The system analyst bridges the communications gap  between 
                 those who need the computer and those who understand the 
                 technology. 
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