Outcome Based Analysis, Impostor Syndrome, and Hybrid Meetings
3 Key Takeaways from BA Digest (Q3 Edition)
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and may not reflect the perspectives of IIBA.
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The Q3 edition of BA Digest was recently released, which contains sixteen diverse articles. If you’re short of time, here’s a summary of three.
1. Outcome Based Analysis
In "Start with the End in Mind — The Importance of Outcome Based Analysis," Frances Eccles observes that many projects lack a clear understanding of desired outcomes. Without a clear articulation of the end state, decision-making becomes difficult, leading to compromised projects and disappointed stakeholders. By taking the time to understand what stakeholders are trying to achieve, project teams can establish a solid foundation for defining requirements. In organizations with a business architect, there may already be a well-defined enterprise architectural strategy and business goals. However, even without such resources, project teams can benefit from adopting an outcome based approach. This shifts the focus from the solutions being implemented to the impact of those solutions. Frances highlights the Benefits Dependency Mapping technique as particularly useful.
2. Overcoming Impostor Syndrome
In "Finding Your Confidence: Navigating Imposter Syndrome as a Business Analyst," Kyle Roycroft discusses a topic that will resonate with many business analysis professionals: imposter syndrome. As some practitioners didn’t initially plan to pursue this career path, he argues, some may feel unprepared for its challenges. This sense of being ill-equipped can exacerbate feelings of imposter syndrome, as individuals may doubt their ability to succeed in their role. The pressure to constantly learn and grow in a fast-paced environment can further contribute to feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt.
According to Kyle, overcoming imposter syndrome as a business analysis professional requires acknowledging and addressing feelings of self-doubt and insecurity. Developing confidence, setting realistic expectations, and seeking support from colleagues and mentors can help individuals succeed in their careers. By recognizing the pervasiveness of imposter syndrome, business analysis professionals can start overcoming these challenges and realizing their full potential.
3. Mastering Hybrid Meetings
In "Mastering Hybrid Meeting Facilitation for Business Analysts," Jamie Champagne explores how effective communication and facilitation are essential to successful hybrid meetings. Hybrid facilitation shares similarities with in-person facilitation, such as the need for desired outcomes. Business analysis professionals must navigate time zones, languages, and digital mediums to facilitate collaboration.However, achieving success in hybrid settings requires additional consideration of facilitation goals to ensure inclusive participation and engagement. Clear expectations, such as turning on cameras, contributing at least once, and documenting next steps, are crucial. Comprehensive planning not only ensures great outcomes but also secures stakeholder buy-in for future sessions.
While technology plays a significant role in hybrid meetings, it's essential to consider a mixed-media approach prioritizing stakeholder comfort and engagement. A "20/20 agenda" frees up 20% of collaboration time by removing 20% of planned content. Inclusiveness should be incorporated from planning through execution, ensuring equal treatment for all participants.
Proper audio and video setup is also vital for capturing and sharing outputs. Assistants, whether in-person or online, can enhance facilitation by managing logistics and encouraging participation. Finally, distributing materials after the session ensures clarity on next steps, maintaining engagement and equality among participants.
Techniques and Interpersonal Skills Are Key
There’s a whole range of business analysis techniques. Knowing when and where to apply them is key. Tools and techniques alone aren’t enough, though. They need to be skillfully blended with a practitioner’s interpersonal and facilitative skills so that they can be effectively deployed.If you need to broaden your knowledge of techniques, explore IIBA’s KnowledgeHub. You can even try its new AI tool!
For more thought-provoking articles like the ones mentioned above, be sure to download your copy of BA Digest—a free, open access, quarterly magazine published by Blackmetric that focuses on all things business analysis.
About the Author
Adrian Reed is a true advocate of the analysis profession. He acts as Principal Consultant at Blackmetric Business Solutions, where he provides business analysis consultancy and training solutions to a range of clients in varying industries. He is editor-in-chief of the quarterly open-access magazine BA Digest, and he speaks internationally on topics relating to business analysis and business change. Adrian wrote the 2016 book Be a Great Problem Solver… Now and the 2018 book Business Analyst.
