Similarly, electronic mail requires open pathways to send messages, documents, and data from one computer mailbox to another across different equipment and program lines. Analysts must design the gates in the hardware and software to allow free exchange of data, custom applications, and the computer power to process it all. They study the seemingly incompatible pieces and create ways to link them so that users can access information from any part of the system. Because the possible uses of computers are so varied and complex, analysts usually specialize in either business, scientific, engineering, or microcomputer applications. Previous experience or training in a particular area usually dictates the field in which they are most qualified to develop computer systems.
Systems analysts design ways to link computers through networks.
Working Conditions Computer scientists and systems analysts work in offices or laboratories in comfortable surroundings. They usually work about 40 hours a week the same as other professional and office workers. Occasionally, however, evening or weekend work may be necessary to meet deadlines. Because computer scientists and systems analysts spend long periods of time in front of a computer terminal typing on a keyboard, they are susceptible to eye strain and back discomfort and hand and wrist problems. Employment Computer scientists and systems analysts held about 666,000 jobs in 1992.