Rethinking the Role of the Business Analyst

March 4, 2009

Rethinking the Roleof the Business Analyst

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AGENDA

• Shaw’s quest for agility• Current state• The topic at hand• Business analyst challenges• The evolution of the business analyst• Open discussion

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Rethinking the Role of the Business Analyst

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Shaw’s quest for agility…

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Rethinking the Role of the Business Analyst

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Need to quickly adapt to change

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Our projects needed to improve:• Delivering on budget

• Delivering on time

• Meeting customer expectations

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Need to turn on a dime

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…better, faster, cheaper and more fun!

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The BIG BANG! Approach:• “We will be Agile by…”• Agile training offered to teams• Theoretical vs. applied• Intent was correct but we rushed to adopt

Credit: mark chadwick art – flickr.com

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Rethinking the Role of the Business Analyst

Good Practice ≠ Success

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How does the Business Analyst fit into the agile world?

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Here’s what we know• Analysis

• Lightweight requirements

• Consideration of user goals & objectives

• User acceptance

• Essential documentation only

• Business engagement

March 4, 2009 | Rethinking the Role of the Business Analyst 13Credit: regolare – flickr.com

The ultimate goal: working software!!

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Business Analyst Challenges

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Broad focus instead of deep dive

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The “Minute Takers”

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Subject Matter Expert trap

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Engagement with other team members

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March 4, 2009

Rethinking the Role of the Business Analyst

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So what’s next for the Analyst?

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March 4, 2009

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Business Advocate? Architect?

Credit: Alexander Drachamann– flickr.com

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Thank You!

Practice Leadership TeamHeather Karp - Practice Leader, Business AnalystRam Swaminathan - Practice Leader, DevelopmentDavid Cranstone - Practice Leader, Quality AssuranceChad Fournier - Practice Leader, User Experience