Those performing Business Analysis are typically known as Business Analysts (BAs) and often work in dynamic environments where change is not only anticipated, but is expected and embraced. I was recently asked to look at developing a Business Analysis Life Cycle to help frame an approach to BA work. I started with the broad definition of Business Analysis - as a vehicle to generate and present unambiguous information to help facilitate the decision making process and deliver business outcomes and stressed that the and involves a portfolio of techniques that focus on demonstrating an understanding of the client’s needs and identifying how best to meet those needs.
I believe Business Analysis is increasingly encompassing broader organisational challenges (e.g. strategic planning and business health checks) and solutions to business problems, which may include systems, processes, organisational change or a combination of these. Whetehr you are a Systems BA, Process BA or Finacial BA, the discipline of Busienss Analsysis is a core caspability. As a consultant this core capability, Business Analysis, is achieved through developing effective relationships with the business and technology Subject Matter Experts (SMEs), extracting, analysing and presenting relevant information to ensure key stakeholders have a common expectation of the quality, scope, cost and benefits of the preferred solution. It very much about facilitation and communication of requirements to meet needs of stakeholders.
To develop the Business Analysis Life Cycle (BALC) I reviewed the framework of the key BA professional bodies:
· IIBA - International Institute of Business Analysis
· ABAA – Australian Business Analysis Association
and found that the key concepts of any BA life cycle are:
· Establish and define the purpose of business analysis;
· Establish and define the core activities an BA may be required to undertake in achieving the business purpose; and
· Establish and define the key facilitating processes and resources that will support an BA in achieving analysis objectives.
It is important that the BALC reflects the iterative facilitation and co-ordination processes undertaken in dynamic environments and therefore the following skills/governance actions of Communication, Planning and Control are central to the approach and support the core elements/activities of the BA role and reflects the analytical process from initiation/definition through to conclusion. I see these six phases as:
1. Initiation and Scoping
2. Research and Analysis
3. Requirements Specification
4. Design
5. Development and Implementation
6. Evaluation and Conclusion
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