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The Rise of Agile Analysis

 
 

If you’ve been practicing business analysis for long, you’ve heard of agile analysis. But do you understand the general meaning of agile analysis, as well as what it means for you as a BA? If not, becoming more informed about it may help to give you a competitive edge in your field.

What is Agile Analysis and Why is it Gaining Momentum?

Agile analysis is “the warm concept of business troubleshooting,” stated the Modern Business Analyst.1 Agile business analysts often work in an agile software development environment and, according to a contributor to the MBA, tend to be personal, hands-on professionals who want to be in constant communication with stakeholders. Additionally, they are comfortable with communicating via more personal channels of contact than email or fax. They are also willing to allow stakeholders to be very involved in all stages of development and welcome their feedback.


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“In short, with agile analysis the business analyst and development teams will work hand in hand to deliver working software in a quick manner,” stated What is Agile Analysis?2 “They will be able to get face-to-face feedback allowing for changes to be made for the client. A working model structure will target each step or phase. The results will be classified as just-in-time solutions.”

Wondering why agile analysis is rising? The answer lies in the changes taking place in today’s core business process owner.

Modern business and product owners are developing more connections than ever before. Agile business analysts are able to meet this type of stakeholder’s needs to ensure better business outcomes by acting as the connection between the business goals and the responsible parties to achieve those goals.

How Should Business Analysts Respond to the Rise in Agile Analysis?

Not every BA is cut out to be an analyst who works specifically in an agile software development environment. However, business analysts who are interested in becoming specialists in this area will likely find many doors of opportunity opening to them in the future. But all BAs should strengthen their agile skills simply to better meet the needs of clients. According to the BA Times,3 a few examples of agile skills include:

  • Adaptability
  • Goal orientation
  • Innovation
  • Leadership
  • Empathy
  • Business orientation

“Such qualities are desired, if not required, regardless of whether the business analyst is involved with agile software development, traditional software development, or no software development at all,” wrote a contributor to the BA Times. Strengthening your agile skills will help you remain relevant as a business analyst throughout the span of your career.

The Agile Extension to the BABOK® Guide

The Agile Extension to the BABOK® Guide introduces a rolling model that includes three planning horizons: strategy, initiative, and delivery. The Agile Extension can help you adapt to the needs of stakeholders rapidly and build your skill set as a BA. Learn more about the Agile Extension to the BABOK® Guide here.  

The International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA) offers a valuable certification opportunity to prove your agile expertise. It’s the Agile Analysis Certification. Learn how this certification can help you certify your future.

 

Listen to our latest podcast on Agile with Jas Phul.

 

 

References:

1, 2. Modern Analyst. What is agile analysis?

3. The BA Times. What is an AGILE business analyst?