What is a functional analyst?

A functional analyst helps companies optimize their business systems by examining their functionality. As a functional analyst, your job duties include evaluating current systems, designing improved systems through data modeling and research, preparing cost-benefit analyses, presenting your findings to company leaders, and implementing new business systems once approved. The qualifications for a career as a functional analyst include a bachelor’s degree in computer science or information technology, excellent analytical and communications skills, and significant experience with computer systems. Some employers prefer you to have a master’s degree in business administration (MBA) with a specialization in information systems.