Business Analyst vs. Software Developer: What Are the Differences?
Learn about the two careers and review some of the similarities and differences between them.
A business analyst and software developer are both important roles in the tech industry. Business analysts help companies identify areas where they can improve efficiency and effectiveness, while software developers create the applications and systems that business analysts often recommend. If you’re interested in a career in tech, understanding the similarities and differences between these two positions can help you decide which is the right fit for you. In this article, we compare and contrast the job titles business analyst and software developer.
What is a Business Analyst?
Business Analysts are responsible for identifying and solving problems within organizations. They work with stakeholders to understand the root cause of problems and then develop solutions that improve efficiency and effectiveness. Business Analysts use data analysis, process improvement and project management techniques to develop solutions. They also create business requirements documents that detail the proposed solutions. Business Analysts typically work in office settings, but they may also travel to meet with clients or stakeholders.
What is a Software Developer?
Software Developers design, create and test computer programs to ensure they operate efficiently and effectively. They use programming languages and software engineering principles to write code for new applications or to improve existing ones. They also work with other members of a development team to plan, design and implement features. Once a program is completed, they conduct tests to find and fix any errors that may exist. They may also be responsible for creating user manuals and training materials for new or updated programs.
Business Analyst vs. Software Developer
Here are the main differences between a business analyst and a software developer.
Job Duties
Both job roles have duties that involve researching a company’s needs and creating software to fulfill those needs. However, the specific tasks in these duties differ between business analysts and software developers. Business analysts often focus on identifying the goals of a company and its customers. Then, they use this information to create software that helps the company achieve its goals.
In contrast, software developers look at the details of the software itself. They consider how users will interact with the product and what features they’ll need to make the software useful. These details help them design and build software programs that satisfy customer needs.
Job Requirements
Business analysts and software developers both need at least a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field. However, business analysts may also benefit from pursuing a master’s degree in business administration or another business-related field. Additionally, many employers prefer candidates for business analyst positions to have experience working in the business world, as this can help them better understand the needs of the company they are working for.
Software developers typically need to have strong programming skills, as they will be responsible for developing the code that makes programs run. They might also benefit from taking courses in project management, as they often work on teams of developers to create large software projects. In some cases, software developers may also need to obtain certifications in specific programming languages to show that they have the skills necessary to do their job.
Work Environment
Business analysts typically work in an office setting, but they may also travel to meet with clients and observe their operations. They often collaborate with other team members, such as marketing professionals, designers and software developers, to create solutions for a client’s business needs. Software developers usually work in an office environment, but they may also travel to attend conferences or visit clients’ locations to test new products.
Skills
Both business analysts and software developers use analytical skills to assess a company’s needs and determine how best to address them. They also both need to be excellent communicators, as they often have to explain their findings and recommendations to clients or colleagues who may not have the same technical background.
Business analysts typically need more soft skills than software developers. This is because they often have to interact directly with clients to understand their needs and develop relationships. They also may need project management skills to help plan and coordinate the implementation of new systems.
Software developers benefit from having strong technical skills, as they need to be able to write code that meets the specifications set by the business analyst or client. They also need to have an understanding of different computer languages and platforms, as well as the ability to troubleshoot issues that may arise during development.
Salary
Business analysts earn an average salary of $80,401 per year, while software developers earn an average salary of $89,499 per year. Both of these salaries can vary depending on the size of the company, the location of the job and the level of experience the employee has.