4. Find the terms to the given definitions.

1. The symbols that a computer uses to represent facts and ideas.

2. The words, numbers, and graphics used as the basis for human actions and decisions.

3. Tasks performed by the project team whose goal is to produce a list of requirements for a new or revised information system.

4. A computer system that collects, stores, and processes information, usually within the context of an organization.

5. A computer professional responsible for analyzing requirements, designing information systems, and supervising the implementation of new information systems.

5. Answer the questions.

1. What is the difference between data and information?

2. Do you agree that data becomes information when it is presented in format that people can understand and use?

3. How may data be processed?

4. What makes information useful?

5. Do computer systems remain vulnerable to the entry by humans of invalid data?

Text d: System Analyst

Job description. A system analyst designs new IT solutions to improve business efficiency and productivity. Working closely with the client, analysts examine existing business models and flows of data, discuss their findings with the client, and design an appropriate improved IT solution. They produce outline designs and costing of new IT systems, specifying the operations the system will perform, and the way data will be viewed by the user, present their design to the client and, once it is approved, work closely with the client team to implement the solution.

Typical work activities. Work activities depend on specific type of IT system and the size and nature of the organization, but typically involve:

• liaising extensively with clients, presenting proposals to them;

• analyzing clients' existing systems;

• translating client requirements into highly specified project briefs;

• identifying options for potential solutions and assessing them;

• drawing up specific proposals for modified or replacement systems;

• producing project feasibility reports;

• working closely with developers and a variety of end users;

• ensuring that budgets are adhered to and deadlines met;

• drawing up a testing schedule for the complete system;

• overseeing the implementation of a new system;

• planning and working flexibly to a deadline;

• writing user manuals and providing training to users of a new system.

1. Agree or disagree with the following statements.

1. A system analyst investigates the requirements of a business or organization, its

employees, and its customers in order to plan and implement new or improved computer services.

2. The job of a system analyst doesn’t require the ability to identify problems and

research technical solutions.

3. Good communication skills are essential for interacting with managers and other

employees.

4. Depending on the organization and its size, he or she might also be called a systems

consultant, a systems engineer, an information analyst, or a business analyst.

5. A system analyst doesn’t have to determine which people and what kind of

software, hardware, and monetary resources are necessary or available to solve the

problem.