Lecture on Reasons to Become a Business Analyst

May 16, 2024

Lecture Notes on Reasons to Become a Business Analyst

Introduction

Speaker: Lora Brandenburg, creator of Bridging the Gap

  • Organization: Bridging the Gap, a virtual training provider for business analysis careers
  • Endorsements: IIBA and PMI

Purpose of Lecture

  • Discuss three main reasons to become a Business Analyst
  • Reference to a blog post with 42 reasons (link provided in presentation)

Reason 1: Mix of Independent and People-Centered Work

  • **Independent Work: **
    • Typically 2/3 of a BA's workday is independent.
    • Tasks include requirement specification, problem-solving, and analysis.
    • Work might be done quietly, sitting at a desk.
  • **People-Centered Work: **
    • Despite independent tasks, a significant part involves small group settings and stakeholder engagement.
    • Interaction with project managers, developers, and other stakeholders.
    • May involve both scheduled and impromptu meetings.
  • **Consideration: **
    • Ideal for those who enjoy both independent work and group interactions.
    • Not suitable for everyone, especially those who dislike solitary work.

Reason 2: Working with All Levels of an Organization

  • **Variety of People: **
    • BAs work with a range of roles: subject matter experts, developers, managers, VPs, etc.
    • Communication is a key part of the job.
  • **Impact: **
    • Importance of helping different organizational levels understand each other.
    • Requires adaptability in communication styles.

Reason 3: Being Inquisitive (Like Columbo)

  • Analogy: Columbo the Detective
    • Known for always asking one more question.
    • Relentless in pursuit of answers and solving problems.
  • **Qualities Required: **
    • Curiosity and willingness to ask multiple questions.
    • Ability to piece together information even when it doesn't add up initially.

Conclusion

  • Recap of the three reasons discussed:
    1. Mix of independent work and people-centered work.
    2. Working with all organizational levels.
    3. Being inquisitive and asking questions.
  • Encouragement to share other reasons for being a BA.
  • Offer for support on starting a business analysis career.

Contact Information:

  • Name: Lora Brandenburg
  • Organization: Bridging the Gap, virtual training for mid-career professionals
  • Website/Blog Post: Link provided in the presentation