How to become A Business Analyst

• Business Systems Analyst
• Business Architect
• Process Analyst
• Enterprise Analyst

What do Business Analysts do?

A Business Analyst would typically need to:

• Evaluate the performance of an organisation and suggest data-driven solutions to improve their processes and systems
• Understand the business structure, the nitty-gritty of business operations and collaboration between the various departments to streamline the process 
• Develop the best practices for data collection and conduct research; Interview managers and analyse documentation to determine operational objectives 
• Observe company practices and procedures to identify bottlenecks; study system capabilities and identify tools required for the smooth functioning of system processes
• Analyse resultant data, using data modelling practices, to pinpoint improvement opportunities and innovative tools to make them more effective
• Establish the feasibility of meeting set expectations in terms of time, effort, and cost
• Work with stakeholders to devise and implement strategies that will help the organisation achieve the intended outcomes
• Develop time-bound solution-oriented changes and business strategies that will optimise processes, reduce costs, and identify fresh business opportunities
• Confirm the need for a project; establish project teams; set and get requisite approval of appropriate timelines and budgets for the project
• Liaise with all stakeholders to make sure projects are completed on time, within budget, and per organisational requirements; make suitable recommendations when necessary
• Assess current processes and recommend optimal measures to reduce waste, increase efficiency, and improve customer satisfaction
• Work with IT professionals to identify the organisational technology needs, figure out viable software solutions, and implement them into the business plan adeptly after gaining approval from senior management
• Provide expertise in the mapping, documentation, and maintenance of well-run business processes; monitor the introduction of new technologies
• Work with external stakeholders to understand and interpret feedback on the service, function, or product provided
• Persuade stakeholders of the inherent benefits of implementing new strategies or systems while addressing any uncertainties and concerns
• Test systems to identify any bugs or glitches; run workshops and develop manuals to provide training to staff for new IT systems
• Undertake regular audits to evaluate the impact of modifications made, assuming full responsibility for managing and reporting on each audit
• Produce written documentation to support their work, report their findings, and present to select audiences when required

Business Analysts generally work in comfortable and dynamic office environments, spending a lot of time on computers or engaging with stakeholders and other departments within the organisation. Travel is usually a requirement for conferences, training sessions, and client meetings. 

Business Analysts put in the standard 40-45 hours per week with the occasional requirement of overtime and weekends depending on organisational or client needs. Company policy may facilitate remote work. Part-time, freelance, and contract roles favour experienced Business Analysts who may have built a network of clients in a specific industry.

Research suggests that flexible hours and generous telework policies appeal more than salary to the younger generation. There has been an incremental increase in employers willing to give promising employees a chance to adjust their schedules per the work pressure.

Finding a new job may be challenging. Business Analyst can boost their job search by asking their network for referrals, contacting companies directly, using job search platforms, attending job fairs, leveraging social media and inquiring at staffing agencies.

Business Analysts are generally employed by:

• Business Analysis Firms
• Consulting & Professional Service Firms
• County Councils
• Government Departments
• Technology & Engineering Firms
• Banks & Financial Institutions
• Utility Companies
• Multinational Retailers
• Construction Companies
• Oil, Gas, & Mining Companies
• Healthcare Organisations
• Higher Education Institutions
• Transportation Companies
• Telecommunication Companies
• Insurance Firms
• IT & Management Consultancies
• Software Service Providers

Professional associations and organisations, such as the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA), are crucial for Business Analysts interested in pursuing professional development or connecting with like-minded professionals in their industry or occupation. 

Professional associations provide members with continuing education, networking opportunities and mentorship services. Membership in one or more adds value to your resume while bolstering your credentials and qualifications.

• Lack of clarity about one’s scope of work in the face of rapidly changing business requirements and needs
• Vague and ambiguous project briefs about specifics such as requirements and  expected outcomes
• Discord with multiple stakeholders holding diverse perspectives, priorities, and expectations over proposed approaches to improve the business process
• Ineffective collaboration and communication with cross-functional teams due to conflicting priorities or perspectives
• Manage hostility, overcome objections, and gain buy-in for proposed changes from stakeholders or employees resistant to change
• Clash in requirements from different sources due to lack of proper documentation on the project or poorly documented procedures and processes
• Inaccurate and incomplete information due to difficulty in accessing requisite details from complex systems or fragmented data sources
• Tight project timelines and budget constraints that play havoc with the need for comprehensive analysis and meticulous gathering of requirements
• Ignorance of or resistance to emerging tools, methodologies, and digital transformation trends
• Failure to understand the impact of and adopt new market trends, regulatory changes, and industry disruptions
• Stress caused by simultaneous work on multiple projects with specific sets of priorities, deadlines, and stakeholders requiring strong organisational and time management skills

Business Analysts ideally accumulate a judicious combination of relevant academic qualifications and work experience through formative internships, part-time gigs, and volunteer work opportunities that offer a taste of the career and improve one’s prospects of getting a permanent job. 

Check whether you can complete a Business Analyst degree apprenticeship as a viable alternative to a full-time degree. Individuals with a technical or business background may obtain the requisite work experience and vocational skills through a sandwich course involving alternate formal instruction and industrial placement sessions. 

Entry-level positions as data analysts, project coordinators, or financial analysts in financial, retail, non-profit, local government, and healthcare sectors can set one on the journey to gain a range of coveted transferable skills such as the ability to collaborate, analyse data, use technology, and manage topical projects, build valuable contacts, and understand how this fast-paced industry works.

The experience may also help determine whether the public, private or voluntary sector is best suited to realise one’s ambitions. Your educational provider’s career service department can provide information about viable work placements, internships and voluntary work opportunities in diverse sectors.

Even while in high school, you can check with a teacher or counsellor about relevant work-based learning opportunities available in your school or community that can help you connect your school experiences with real-life work. 

Join business or computer clubs or volunteer to improve a particular function in a small enterprise, so you can have fun while learning about yourself and be directed toward a future career. Read about the profession and interview or job shadow experienced Business Analysts to prove your commitment to course providers and prospective employers.

Business Analysts benefit from acquiring relevant academic qualifications that aid a comprehensive understanding of business principles and the emergence of strong numerical, analytical and problem-solving skills.

Typically a bachelor’s degree or a BTEC National Diploma in a business-, computing-, economics-, or numeracy-related subject will provide a good grounding in Information Technology (IT). Employers may also lean toward applicants with a technical software development, engineering, or programming background. 

Graduates in business information systems, business computing systems, and data analytics will also learn the skills to analyse business needs and study markets. A foundation certificate in business analysis from a chartered institution may help you land an entry-level position in this highly competitive profession.

A master’s degree in a relevant discipline would benefit an aspiring Business Analyst to acquire advanced knowledge and skills through the complex coursework such degrees demand.

Aspirants without a business or tech background may also thrive in this role, provided they can demonstrate appropriate business and analytical insight to prospective employers. A postgraduate diploma or MSc (Master of Science) in IT, computer systems, or information systems will serve the purpose of obtaining the expected prowess.

Recommended college-preparatory courses include mathematics, economics, business, computer science, and physics. English and speech classes will help you develop your research, writing, and oral communication skills.

Remember that completing a particular academic course does not guarantee entry into the profession. Be that as it may, your professional qualifications and transferable skills may open up more than one door.

Do your homework and look into all available options for education and employment before enrolling in a specific programme. Reliable sources that help you make an educated decision include associations and employers in your field. 

Certification demonstrates a Business Analysts’s competency in a skill set, typically through work experience, training and passing an examination. Successful certification programs protect public welfare by incorporating a Code of Ethics.

Certifications in business analysis, business and management accountancy, business intelligence, computing, and financial analysis, from an objective and reputed organisation can help you stand out in a competitive job market and carry a significant salary premium of up to 18 per cent.

Accredited certifications in program management, change management, data analytics, information security, and data management are equally significant in enhancing career opportunities. 

Business Analysts may also need to undergo an employment background check, including but not limited to a person’s work history, education, credit history, motor vehicle reports (MVRs), criminal record, medical history, use of social media and drug screening.

Career progression in this field may take distinct paths based on whether you wish to excel in a technical role with both feet on the ground, move into people management, or work in another IT-related area, such as security.

Business Analysts with a consistently successful track record can expect promotion to roles such as Senior Business Analyst, Lead Business Analyst, Business Analysis Manager, Business Systems Analyst, Product Manager, Project Manager, and eventually to Director or Executive level positions.

One may remain a general business analyst or specialise in data analytics or security management; finding one’s niche in a particular industry is a lateral career move with fruitful career prospects.

Incumbents with an aptitude for academia may acquire research degrees and take up teaching or training. At the same time, those with an entrepreneurial bent of mind may open their own consulting firms after building a functional network of prospective clients. 

The desire to accelerate career growth and personal development has an increasing number of millennials choosing to job hop and build a scattershot resume that showcases ambition, motivation and the desire to learn a broad range of skills.

Studies prove that job hopping, earlier dismissed as “flaky” behaviour, can lead to greater job fulfilment. Employees searching for a positive culture and exciting work are willing to try out various roles and workplaces and learn valuable and transferable skills along the way.

Business Analysts who develop and hone excellent communication and negotiation skills alongside transferable skills such as collaborating with other people, analysing data, and using various technological tools in managing projects have the best job prospects.

Continuing professional development (CPD) will help an active Business Analyst build personal skills and proficiency through work-based learning, a professional activity, 

formal education or self-directed learning.

Fostering technical expertise through postgraduate degrees and MS Access and SQL Databases while continuing to build on interpersonal, organisational, collaborative, critical-thinking, decision-making, adaptability, and time management skills could help one grow professionally.

Managing finance or business-related projects in a particular industry can provide beneficial career development. Keep abreast of new technological developments by attending seminars, conferences, and workshops to remain relevant. Use networking events to connect with peers and build purposeful relationships that could translate into promising opportunities.

The Project Management Institute (PMI) and the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA) offer certifications to recognise experienced Business Analysts who successfully manage projects. Using examples from past case studies in business analysis can help showcase your professional potential and build trust with business owners about your proven track record and knowledge. 

Participate in training for change management, data analytics, information systems, and project management tools. Look into professional organisations that may help provide professional development courses and qualifications to experienced Business Analysts.

In addition to offering the opportunity to continually upskill, regardless of one’s age, job, or level of knowledge, CPD also enables the periodic renewal of desirable certifications, which increase one’s chances of advancement and becoming an independent consultant.

Current Scenario

The employment outlook of a particular profession may be impacted by diverse factors, such as the time of year, location, employment turnover, occupational growth, occupation size, and industry-specific trends and events that affect overall employment.

Over the last five years, nearly 90% of organisations have set up an ‘analytics’ function, and every role under this has been on the rise. Business Analysts will also witness decent job growth in the coming years with the rise of technologies and an increased dependency on efficient processes and systems.

Potential Pros & Cons of Freelancing vs Full-Time Employment

Freelancing Business Analysts have more flexible work schedules and locations. They fully own the business and can select their projects and clients. However, they experience inconsistent work and cash flow, which means more responsibility, effort and risk.

On the other hand, full-time Business Analysts have company-sponsored health benefits, insurance and retirement plans. They have job security with a fixed, reliable source of income and guidance from their bosses. Yet, they may experience boredom due to a lack of flexibility, ownership and variety.

When deciding between freelancing or being a full-time employee, consider the pros and cons to see what works best for you.

More Than One Kind

Data analysts collect, process, and perform statistical analysis on data to help organisations make data-driven decisions. Business systems analysts identify problems leading to inefficient business processes and systems, gather and analyse relevant data, and propose fitting solutions. 

Financial analysts use financial data to help companies make informed decisions about investments, budgets, and financial strategies for growth. Operations analysts study data, identify areas of improvement, and propose solutions to improve an organisation’s operational efficiency and effectiveness. 

Marketing analysts evaluate market trends and consumer behaviour so companies can make educated choices about marketing strategies, product development, and customer retention. Business intelligence analysts help companies make strategic decisions for market growth by identifying relevant trends, patterns, and insights.

Quality assurance analysts utilise testing, analysis, and process improvement to ensure products and services meet established quality standards. Risk analysts locate and investigate potential financial, legal, and operational risks to the business, after which they figure out strategies to mitigate them. 

Tools of the Trade

Interviews, surveys, workshops, observation, prototyping, data analysis, document analysis, and benchmarking are some of the standard tools used by Business Analysts to gather pertinent information from authentic sources, break it down to understand the business needs and recommend solutions to help the organisation attain its objectives. 

About 82% of small businesses fail because of poor cash flow accounts.

Technically sound Business Analysts with a genuine interest in diverse perspectives and the ability to get to the root of issues plaguing the business through creative investigation skills drive efficient business growth.

“Business analysts must have a thick skin: thick enough to take feedback on documents and receive unexpected answers to questions!”

― Laura Brandenburg