# Tasks & work activities — occupational analyst

Source: O*NET 30.3, occupation 15-2031.00 (Operations Research Analysts).

## Task statements

- **[Core]** Present the results of mathematical modeling and data analysis to management or other end users.
- **[Core]** Educate staff in the use of mathematical models.
- **[Core]** Review research literature.
- **[Core]** Formulate mathematical or simulation models of problems, relating constants and variables, restrictions, alternatives, conflicting objectives, and their numerical parameters.
- **[Core]** Collaborate with others in the organization to ensure successful implementation of chosen problem solutions.
- **[Core]** Analyze information obtained from management to conceptualize and define operational problems.
- **[Core]** Perform validation and testing of models to ensure adequacy, and reformulate models, as necessary.
- **[Core]** Collaborate with senior managers and decision makers to identify and solve a variety of problems and to clarify management objectives.
- **[Core]** Define data requirements, and gather and validate information, applying judgment and statistical tests.
- **[Core]** Study and analyze information about alternative courses of action to determine which plan will offer the best outcomes.
- **[Core]** Prepare management reports defining and evaluating problems and recommending solutions.
- **[Core]** Break systems into their components, assign numerical values to each component, and examine the mathematical relationships between them.
- **[Core]** Specify manipulative or computational methods to be applied to models.
- **[Core]** Observe the current system in operation, and gather and analyze information about each of the component problems, using a variety of sources.
- **[Core]** Design, conduct, and evaluate experimental operational models in cases where models cannot be developed from existing data.
- **[Core]** Develop and apply time and cost networks to plan, control, and review large projects.
- **[Core]** Develop business methods and procedures, including accounting systems, file systems, office systems, logistics systems, and production schedules.

## Detailed work activities

- Analyze data to identify or resolve operational problems.
- Analyze data to identify trends or relationships among variables.
- Analyze project data to determine specifications or requirements.
- Apply information technology to solve business or other applied problems.
- Apply mathematical principles or statistical approaches to solve problems in scientific or applied fields.
- Collaborate with others to resolve information technology issues.
- Conduct research to gain information about products or processes.
- Design computer modeling or simulation programs.
- Determine appropriate methods for data analysis.
- Develop detailed project plans.
- Develop scientific or mathematical models.
- Document operational activities.
- Evaluate data quality.
- Manage budgets for appropriate resource allocation.
- Present research results to others.
- Review professional literature to maintain professional knowledge.
- Train others on work processes.
- Troubleshoot issues with computer applications or systems.