Preparation

Most team members join a project knowing pretty much what is expected of them. The list of requirements, tasks, and schedules etc., provide a roadmap with a set of deliverables defined at the outset.

Business Analysts, however, usually join projects before these foundations are laid, thus the need to be clear on what is expected and approach each project objectively is paramount.

The Analyst's Toolkit

There are various analysis tools and techniques in widespread use e.g., PESTLE, SWOT, 5 forces. The successful Business Analyst will be able to combine, amend and extend each and all of these to suit the situation and their own style and preferences.

Continuing with the methods already used in-house will establish a consistent framework and promote good understanding between analysts, business managers, and developers.

It is therefore important to be familiar with the tools comonly used and check which, if any, are preferred by the customer.

Business Models

An organization might be adamant that a new system is all that's needed, but your analysis may show that new working practices or processes are also required. You will need to demonstrate this or risk squandering real opportunities for success.

Most business models are constructed using the UML specification.

Constructing clear and effective process models is one way of presenting a convincing case for change.

The Brief

One cannot overstate how important it is to be sure just what is expected when starting a new project.

In times of economic turmoil, cost cutting is natural, yet skimping on planning and proper oversight cannot be justified. Restricting the scope of a development may be appropriate, but not properly investigating it's purpose and appropriateness, is not.

Business environment

Before any work begins the Business Analyst should take a step back and look at where the business stands in relation to the environment in which it operates.

It is vital to do this before the customer's own conditioning rubs off and an objective viewpoint is impossible to find.

Many businesses struggle when the world around them changes. This is most obvious with technological advances and trends but there are other circumstances that need to be examined:

  • Legislation and public perceptions can drastically change the way a business needs to function.
  • Internal expectations and structures can also play a big part in determining what is, or is not, possible or even desirable, for an organization.

Any proposed solution must take these factors into account.



Conclusion

A Business Analyst should be prepared to look afresh at operations, processes, or products when seeking business improvement.

The Analyst's input will be a major factor in deciding if and how a project progresses.

Although mainly an early contributor, the analyst can add value to a project throughout it's lifecycle.

Given their wider perspectives, Business Analysts are expected to bring novel ideas and constructive input to problem resolution.