Choosing the best financial systems analyst depends largely on your role. For example, if you are an individual or representative of a large organization with money to invest, you should find an analyst who specializes in what is known as "buy side" analysis, which is targeted for consumers. Individuals who work for large financial institutions, such as banks, and brokers should use analysts who specialize in "sell side" financial analysis. If you are performing scholarship or research and are not interested in performing any financial transactions, you should aim to find a financial systems analyst who can provide unbiased analysis.
A financial systems analyst is a professional who specializes in predicting how certain financial instruments, such as stocks, bonds, and debt, might perform. To perform an analysis, this kind of professional uses historical data regarding similar instruments, and observes economic indicators, such as market behaviors. An analyst also performs financial risk management. He or she might work independently, for a financial systems analyst firm or for a financial institution.
Once you have located a few financial systems analysts who specialize in a relevant field, your next step should be to interview and consult with them. Aside from asking basic questions regarding rates and experience, you may also want to learn about analysts' philosophies or methods of working. Consultation should be an important part of the interview process. If you already have an idea about some investment issues for which you or your firm need solutions, you can consult an analyst and find out how he or she might handle your project.
It is possible that after a few consultations, you will find a financial systems analyst who is perfect for your needs. More often than not, however, individuals find that they have to narrow down their choices by thinking about the positive and negative aspects of each option. Some professionals who have larger scale projects might want to use firms, making a wider variety of specialists available to clients. A financial analyst firm can provide you with a team of professionals to tackle large projects from a number of different angles.
An individual or owner of a small organization, on the other hand, might benefit from using an independent financial systems analyst. He or she might charge less since he or she might have limited resources. For individuals who are working on a tighter budget, low rates can be an attractive feature, especially if they require analysts for smaller projects. An individual investor who, for example, has a relatively small portfolio might benefit from contracting an independent analyst.