The business analysis profession, measured annually
IIBA's Global State of Business Analysis Report is the profession's annual benchmark. From salary insights and certification impact to AI adoption and organizational maturity, the report reveals where business analysis stands today and where it is headed next.
Key Findings
What the data reveals in 2026
Drawing on responses from 2,120 professionals across 122 countries, the Global State of Business Analysis Report provides a snapshot of the profession today. From compensation growth to AI's expanding role, this year's survey highlights the trends shaping the modern business analysis professional.
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Salary: How We’re Compensated
Top-Paying Industries
Over the past three reporting periods, several industries have consistently ranked among the highest-paying sectors for business analysis professionals. Professional services and consulting, healthcare and life sciences, and energy and utilities continue to lead, reflecting sustained demand for business analysis expertise.
In 2026, financial services and the government/public sector also emerged among the top-paying industries.
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Growing Through Certification
Certification continues to deliver measurable career value through higher salaries, greater confidence, and accelerated professional growth. In 2026, salary gains for certification holders increased across most certifications.
Results arrive quickly
76% of certified professionals reported experiencing benefits within 12 months. The largest group (35%) saw improvements in just two to six months, making certification one of the fastest-returning professional development investments.
Confidence is the top benefit
Higher confidence at work and upskilling remained the most frequently reported certification benefits in 2026, consistent with previous reporting periods. Salary increases and promotions also ranked among the top outcomes.
Certificate in Cybersecurity Analysis leads salary growth
Holders of the Certificate in Cybersecurity Analysis (CCA) earned an average salary of $102,711 in 2026, up from $87,861 the previous year. This represents a 20% salary premium over non-certified respondents.
AI Awareness and Adoption
AI's growing influence on business analysis
As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to evolve, its impact on business analysis professionals remains significant.
Over the past three years, professionals have consistently reported a positive impact from AI on their careers. In 2024, 63% reported a positive impact, increasing to 74% in 2025 and settling at 69% in 2026. While slightly lower than the previous year, AI continues to be viewed positively by most respondents. Negative sentiment remains low, at just 5% in 2026.
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Access the Full Report
Explore the complete findings, including:
- Salary benchmarks by role, region, and experience level
- Certification and career impact
- AI and agile adoption trends
- Organizational maturity insights
- Global business analysis benchmarks
The full report is an exclusive benefit of IIBA membership.
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Explore More Global Research from IIBA
2025 Global State of Business Analysis Report
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The 2025 Global State of Business Analysis Report provides a snapshot of the insights, skills, and demographics shaping the business analysis profession worldwide. Building on previous editions, this report explores key topics such as salary, certification impact, the growing influence of AI, and much more.
2023-2024 Global State of Business Analysis Report
Elevate Your Career with Insights
The Global State of Business Analysis Report provides a broad view of the skill sets, trends, and demographics that influence the global profession. The reports are part of a series that delves into key areas of business analysis such as salaries, certification, career satisfaction, high-paying industries, education, and more.
2022 Global State of Business Analysis Report
Career-focused Insights You Need to Know
IIBA’s 2022 Global State of Business Analysis Report (GSBA) provides a view of today’s trends and statistics in business analysis. New this year, Career Journey addresses what professionals need to know about business analysis career phases, with specific insights including salary, organization types, job titles, and more.
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