Production analysts may be responsible for installing network switches or ensuring load balancing between servers.
A production analyst is a member of the information technology department of a large organization. They are responsible for managing the computer programs and processes that run in the background on large computer systems. A person in this role requires a combination of mainframe, technical, and processing training. In many organizations, a production analyst is also known as a production controller.
There are four main tasks for a production analyst: schedule jobs, run jobs, manage resources, and perform system maintenance.
There are four main tasks for a production analyst: schedule jobs, run jobs, manage resources, and perform system maintenance. The exact type of skills required depends on the computer’s infrastructure, operating system, and related security protocols. This function is essential for the continuous processing of computer programs and it is often necessary to be available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Compute job scheduling is based on different processors, the time required for each job, priority, and the data being accessed. Requests for tasks to be added to the schedule are submitted by the system developers or functional manager. Typically, multiple jobs are scheduled at the same time, but it is important to ensure that each program updates unrelated systems.
Running the tasks requires updating the variants with the correct data, monitoring the progress, and controlling the output. The Production Analyst is responsible for informing the user of any issues with the job and managing the process to ensure the best use of existing resources.
Resource management includes database optimization, system cloning, and hard drive partitioning. Additional processes may include infrastructure reconfiguration, installation of network switches, and load balancing tools. This is a very important feature as it is more efficient to maximize existing resources than to buy new ones.
Performance maintenance involves regular review of usage reports, downtime statistics, and general system maintenance. All operating system software packages have regular patches or additional code that is used to fix known problems or improve existing security. Applying these patches requires a trained production analyst who understands the implications of the changes and can manage the entire process.
The production analyst generally reports to the technical manager. There are often two or three people in this role, due to the need for a resource to be constantly available. This is a mid-level position as it carries significant responsibility.
An error can cause critical systems to fail or damage the organization’s technical infrastructure. The vast majority of technical directors have worked as production analysts at some point in their careers. This experience is necessary to truly understand the impact of decision making on a large computer system.