Which of the following best describes the role of a systems analyst?

The role of a systems analyst is best described as one that focuses on analyzing and fulfilling user needs. Systems analysts are responsible for understanding the requirements of users and stakeholders in order to design systems that effectively meet those needs. This involves gathering and interpreting information, identifying problems, and proposing solutions that align with business goals and technological capabilities.

A systems analyst acts as a bridge between end-users and the technical team, ensuring that the final product is user-friendly, efficient, and meets the specified requirements. By focusing on user needs, systems analysts help to ensure that systems are developed with a clear understanding of the context in which they will be used, leading to more successful outcomes in system implementation.

While developing software coding, overseeing IT infrastructure, and managing project budgets are all important functions in the realm of IT and systems development, they do not encapsulate the primary focus of a systems analyst. Instead, the analyst's role is centered on understanding and capturing user requirements to inform system development processes.