For example, if an agency is planning to purchase personal computers, it must first determine which type to buy, given its budget and data processing needs. Management analysts would assess the various types of machines available by price range and determine which best meets their department's needs. Working Conditions Management analysts and consultants usually divide their time between their offices and their client's site. Although much of their time is spent indoors in clean, well-lighted offices, they may experience a great deal of stress as a result of trying to meet a client's demands, often on a tight schedule. Typically, analysts and consultants work at least 40 hours a week.
Uncompensated overtime is common, especially when project deadlines are near.
Since they must spend a significant portion of their time with clients, they travel frequently. Self-employed consultants can set their workload and hours and work at home. On the other hand, their livelihood depends on their ability to maintain and expand their client base. Salaried consultants also must impress potential clients to get and keep clients for their company. Employment Management analysts and consultants held about 244,000 jobs in 1996.