The project analyst is on the project for many reasons. There is a lot of paperwork that needs generating, and the project manager needs to oversee, but not necessarily be involved in, every report. Therefore, the project analyst is usually a junior or mid-level position, working with and reporting to the project manager.
They begin by researching the project before it has even been pitched, by identifying trends and consulting the written agreements, including compensation clauses, what the salary rate is and overhead charges to the project.
They work with the project manager to prepare and revise all proposals, reports and presentations. They also perform analytical tasks to make sure the project is supporting its goals and objectives.
In general, the project analyst is there to help gather critical data and support the project team. In more detail, the research a project analyst will conduct includes budget tracking and financial forecasting, project evaluation and monitoring, maintaining compliance with corporate, and public relations.
The data analysis from a project will be handled by the analyst as well. They will look at key performance indicators and create a regular variance report to help the project manager track the project’s progress compared to the project plan.
The project analyst is also a go-between for the project manager and stakeholders. They help gather, analyze and communicate requirements and changes to business processes, policies, etc. It is critical that someone intimate with the project work with the stakeholders to make sure the project objectives are in alignment with the project.
Project analyst roles differ from organization to organization, but they are normally related to performing, analyzing and providing project analysis and support for the project team. A summary of those responsibilities follows:
Project analysts have a great deal of responsibility and, next to the project manager, are as close to the inner-workings of the project as anyone. Landing a position as a project analyst is a great way to get a foothold in the project management profession.
But what do you need to have on your resume to stand out as a qualified candidate? A bachelor’s degree in computer science, management information systems or business administration is the baseline on which to build your career.
If you have both an associate-level computer science degree and some years of experience, you can likely land an entry-level position. Once you’ve acquired the position, you can better your chances of advancement by getting some certification.
PMI offers a PMI Professional in Business Analysis (PMI-PBA) certification. According to PMI, opportunities for business analysts are in demand. To get certified you must have a secondary degree, 7,500 hours of business analysis experience, 2,000 hours working on a project team and 35 contact hours of education in business analysis.
The PMI-PBA is a 200 multiple-choice question exam to be completed in four hours. Once you’ve gained certification, you’re required to earn 60 professional development units (PDUs) in business analysis topics every three years.
Source: Project Manager