Business analyst

Description

The focus of a business analyst is to review and analyse an organisations business, including its business intentions, business services, business processes and information needs. This analysis may help the business implement changes that lead to business improvements.

A business analyst is regarded as a conduit between the business units, organisational stakeholders and solutions delivery teams. A business analyst will liaise with key stakeholders in an organisation to develop a solid understanding of how the business is currently operating and the future goals of the business. Once the business analyst has gained this understanding, they will then review and analyse the business in terms of its business services, business processes, organisational structure and other relevant information to assist the business in identifying the best way to effect business change for achieving its business goals.

These business changes may include extensive stakeholder engagement activities to improve existing organisational structure, existing business services and service delivery mechanisms, existing business processes and in some cases the introduction of automation using ICT solution.

A Business Analyst exhibits a combination of capabilities from the Skills Framework for the Information Age (SFIA) and the Leadership competencies for Queensland.

SFIA profile

Within the SFIA profile, the benefits analyst has level 4 and 5capabilities, i.e. enables, ensures and advises on the skills outlined below.

Refer to the framework for descriptions of the seven levels of responsibility and accountability.

SFIA skills	SFIA skill code	SFIA skill level of responsibility	SFIA skills level descriptor
Business process improvement	BPRE	5	Manages the execution of business process improvements. Assesses the feasibility of business process changes and recommends alternative approaches. Selects, tailors and implements methods and tools for improving business processes at programme, project or team level. Contributes to the definition of organisational policies, standards and guidelines for business process improvement.
Business situation analyst	BUSA	4	Investigates business situations where there is some complexity and ambiguity. Adopts holistic view to identify and analyse problems and opportunities. Contributes to the selection of the approach and techniques to be used for business situation analysis. Conducts root cause analysis and identifies recommendations for improvements. Engages and collaborates with operational stakeholders.
Data modelling and design	DTAN	4	Investigates enterprise data requirements where there is some complexity and ambiguity. Plans data modelling and design activities, selecting appropriate techniques and levels of detail to meet objectives. Provides advice and guidance to others using the data structures and associated components.
Stakeholder relationship management	RLMT	5	Identifies the communications and relationship needs of stakeholder groups. Translates communications/stakeholder engagement strategies into specific activities and deliverables. Facilitates open communication and discussion between stakeholders. Acts as a single point of contact by developing, maintaining and working to stakeholder engagement strategies and plans. Provides informed feedback to assess and promote understanding. Facilitates business decision-making processes. Captures and disseminates technical and business information.
Feasibility assessment	FEAS	4	Selects relevant feasibility assessment approaches and techniques. Identifies the range of possible options. Undertakes short-listing of options and feasibility assessment. Engages with internal and external stakeholders to get the information required for feasibility assessment. Supports preparation of business cases including cost/benefit, impact and risk analysis for each option.

Leadership skills

Leadership competencies for Queensland describes what highly effective, everyday leadership looks like in the sector. In simple, action-oriented language, it provides a common understanding of the foundations for success across all roles. The profile describes three performance dimensions (vision, results and accountability) and 11 leadership competencies required against five leadership streams.

Leadership streams are not connected to a level or classification, but rather reflect the balance between leadership and technical skills required of an individual. Individuals can consider the value proposition of roles rather than the traditional lens of hierarchical structures or classification levels. The five leadership streams are:

• Individual contributor (Leads self and does not supervise others)
• Team leader (leads a team and typically reports to a program leader)
• Program leader (leads team leaders and/or multiple areas of work)
• Executive (leads program leaders or other executives)
• Chief executive (leads the organisation).

When developing a role description, identify the role type and then focus on the most important attributes and create a balance between SFIA skills and leadership skills.

Entry points

While a formal tertiary qualification is considered highly advantageous to work as a business analyst, it is not essential. Tertiary courses in information technology, information systems, business management, commerce or corporate systems support are relevant to a career as a business analyst. TAFE qualifications, such as a Diploma in IT or a Diploma of Business Studies may also support entry to a business analyst career. Experience working within an ICT business area is highly regarded.

Business analysts require very strong oral and written communication skills, strong skills in negotiation and customer management, sound analytical and conceptual skills, strong attention to detail, a location approach to problem solving and an investigative and inquisitive mind.

Learning and development

There are a number of ways to develop and improve business analysis skills. Formal training and on the job experience are important ways to improve and develop the required skills.