The Better Business Analyst Podcast

BA Bites - The Power of "Why?" is part of our BA Bites series: 2 min top tip for Business Analysts. Ever heard the phrase "There's no such thing as a stupid question"? In business analysis, the most valuable question might be "Why?". By asking "why" behind a stakeholder request, we uncover the true needs and motivations. This leads to better solutions and avoids building features that nobody actually wants. So next time you're gathering requirements, don't be afraid to dig deeper and ask "why?" --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterbusinessanalysis/message

BA Bites - Mythbusting Business Analysis is part of our BA Bites series: 2 min top tip for Business Analysts Today, we're tackling some common myths about business analysis. Myth number one: Business analysts are just glorified note-takers. Wrong! While capturing requirements is important, BAs wear many hats. We analyse needs, bridge communication gaps, and ensure projects align with business goals. Myth number two: BAs only deal with software development. Not true! We can be involved in any project requiring business process improvement, from marketing campaigns to product launches. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterbusinessanalysis/message

In this episode, we delve into 10 productivity tips every business analyst should know. We discuss how to manage emails efficiently, limit meetings, use stand-ups, keep documentation light, and be clear and concise. We also explore the importance of being agile, looking at the big picture, avoiding detail loops, using structure, and the necessity of continuous learning in the ever-evolving field of business analysis. Tune in to learn how to work smarter and become more valuable to your team. #BusinessAnalysis #ProductivityTips --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterbusinessanalysis/message

Feeling Lost in the Company Communication Labyrinth? This episode explores node science, a game-changer for understanding information flow within your organisation. We'll delve into the concept of networks, where employees and departments are the nodes, and information exchange is the connection. Here's what you'll learn: The Law of the Few:Visualising the Flow:Business Analyst Power-Up: By the end, you'll be able to: So, tune in, Business Analysts, and get ready to become information flow superheroes! ‍♀️ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterbusinessanalysis/message

A rapid 8 to 12% cut saving for any organisation will always cause pain, disruption and people loss however there are the right ways of going about this challenge (strategic approach) and there is the wrong way of tackling this problem (tactical approach). This week on The Better Business Analysis Institute (BBAI) I have given my take on how the public service (or any business) should go about saving money without sacrificing your services and reducing more staff than you need to. This episode explores proven strategies to reduce costs while keeping your staff informed and valued. We'll dive into high-impact approaches like strategic portfolio management and process improvement. Learn how to optimise resources and leverage technology without resorting to mass layoffs. Join us as we explore ways to achieve cost savings with a people-centric approach! P.S If you need help with this process then we recommend Optified #publicservice #costcutting #leadership #teameffectiveness --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterbusinessanalysis/message

This episode dives into the IEIT Model (developed by The Better Business Analysis Institute), a powerful framework for BAs to understand project types, select the right approach, and ultimately contribute to project success. The IEIT Model Explained: The IEIT Model categorizes projects based on two key dimensions: Innovation (New vs. Established):Approach (Improvement vs. Transformation): By understanding these quadrants and their specific BA considerations, BAs can effectively leverage the IEIT Model to optimize project outcomes and contribute significantly to an organization's strategic goals. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterbusinessanalysis/message

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of user personas and explore why they are a secret weapon for business analysts. Whether you’re a seasoned BA or just starting your career, understanding your audience through personas can transform your approach to requirements gathering, solution design, and stakeholder alignment. Remember, personas are not just fictional characters; they represent your most valued customers. Let’s dive into their world and discover the magic they bring to your projects! 🌟 So, let's explore: 1. What Are Personas? 2. The Benefits of Using Personas 3. Learn how personas go beyond demographics, capturing psychographic traits like behaviours, feelings, needs, and challenges. 4. How we use personas to create (and measure) targeted Products and Services 5. How personas help us reduce risk by addressing pain points and delivering high-value features that our customers will respond to! Join us as we unlock the power of personas and elevate your business analysis game. Tune in to “Why You Should Use Personas!!” on Spotify now! 🎧🚀 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterbusinessanalysis/message

10 AI & Automation Power-Ups for Business Analysts Feeling overwhelmed by data and repetitive tasks or just wasting time not adding true value? This episode dives into 10 ways AI and automation can transform your work as a Business Analyst (BA). Learn how to leverage free and paid tools to: Effortlessly gather and analyse requirementsUncover hidden insights in dataOptimize processes and automate tasksConduct remote user testingGenerate reports and documentsAnd much more! This episode equips you to become a more strategic and impactful BA with the use of AI tools. Embrace the future of BA work and boost your value within your organisation #BA #BusinessAnalyst #AI #Automation #FutureofWork --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterbusinessanalysis/message

This week I was lucky enough to be joined by Marcella Koopman and Bartwin van der Pols, from the organisational change consultancy Defiant to talk about their new book, Own It or Own Shit. 💩 We dive deep into the world of organisational change, where their book challenges traditional methods and emphasising the importance of genuine ownership and belief. Marcella and Bartwin highlight a three-pronged approach to successful change: belief, driver, and action. Our chat explores how individual belief systems can hinder or support change efforts and encourages all of us to assess their own belief levels and embrace ownership in all aspect of change This episode is a must-listen for anyone involved in organisational change, leadership, or personal development and an overall great chat! https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/5OmiB9WmaIb Get the free e-book here: ⁠www.getdefiant.org/book⁠ 🆓 Learn more about Defiant: ⁠https://getdefiant.org/⁠ Bartwin's Linkedin: ⁠https://nl.linkedin.com/in/bartdeswart⁠ Marcella's Linkedin: ⁠https://nz.linkedin.com/in/marcellakoopman⁠ The Better Business Analysis Institute (BBAI) #defiant #ownership #change #podcast #belief #sh*t --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterbusinessanalysis/message

Feeling unheard? Underappreciated? Buckle up, BAs! This episode dives into the 10 common frustrations Business Analysts (BAs) face daily. We'll explore the struggles of: Scope Creep:Herding Stakeholders:Unclear Requirements:Feeling Invisible:Being Bypassed by Architects: But fear not, warriors! We'll also equip you with actionable strategies to: Set Clear Expectations:Master Stakeholder Management:Refine Requirements Gathering:Gain Recognition:Foster Collaboration: Plus: We'll tackle additional challenges like: Limited Customer Interaction:Feeling Undervalued:Maintaining Work-Life Balance:Career Stagnation: Join us as we unpack the BA experience, offering practical solutions and a supportive community. #businessanalyst #projectmanagement #careerdevelopment --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterbusinessanalysis/message

Level Up Your Learning Game: Mastering Continuous Improvement for Success Spot a process ripe for improvement? This episode ignites your continuous learning and improvement mindset, a key to Business Analysis success! We'll explore how continuous learning applies to: Mindset:Products:People:Processes:Projects:Release & Operational Improvement Whether you're a budding BA or a seasoned learner, this episode equips you with the tools to continuously improve and reach your full potential! #continuouslearning #selfimprovement #growthmindset #learningskills #spotifypodcast --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterbusinessanalysis/message

Do you suffer from BRD overload? Are your Business Requirements Documents (BRDs) long, complex, and collecting dust on a shelf? Worry no more! This Episode is here to show you the top 10 reasons why a short BRD is the key to project success. Hit play and discover how a concise BRD can: Boost Clarity & Focus:Minimize Maintenance:Engage Your Stakeholders:Fast-Track Approval:Save Time & Money:Embrace Agility:Focus on the "What," Not the "How":Prioritize What Matters Most:Keep it Live:Solid Foundation for the Future: So, ditch the BRD bloat and keep it short and sweet. Embrace the power of a concise document and watch your projects reach new heights! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterbusinessanalysis/message

From Chaos to Freebies: The BA's Guide to a Successful App This episode of the Better Business Analysis Podcast takes you on a captivating journey, exploring the entire Better Business Analysis Delivery Journey, as we build a web app that connects users with local free stuff. Buckle up as we delve into each crucial step: 1. Enterprise & Strategic Analysis 2. Problem Analysis & Definition 3. Processes & Scope 4. High-Level Requirements 5. Detailed Level Requirements 6. Delivery & Requirements Management 7. Release & Operational Improvement Join us on this informative journey as we navigate the exciting world of building a successful "Find Local Free Stuff" web app! #businessanalysis #webdev #freeapp #customerinsights #betterbusinessanalysis #thebetterbusinessanalysisinstitute --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterbusinessanalysis/message

Welcome, listeners, to another insightful episode of the Better Business Analyst podcast. I'm your host, Benjamen Walsh, and today we're diving into a topic that lies at the intersection of agility and meticulous planning— 'The Agile V-Model: Why this framework is crucial for Mission Critical Projects.' In the dynamic landscape of business analysis, professionals like you are constantly seeking the most effective methodologies to navigate complex projects, especially those deemed mission-critical. Enter the Agile V-Model, a hybrid approach that marries the flexibility of Agile methodologies with the structured testing and validation processes of the traditional V-Model. Together, these methodologies create a powerful framework that not only accommodates change but also ensures thorough testing at every stage of development. Picture it as a dance between adaptability and precision, choreographed to perfection for projects where success is not just an option but a necessity. Throughout this episode, we'll be unraveling the layers of the Agile V-Model, exploring its adaptability, iterative development approach, and the collaborative spirit it fosters among cross-functional teams. We'll delve into how this framework, like a well-tailored suit, fits seamlessly into mission-critical projects, ensuring early detection of defects, customer satisfaction, and ultimately, project success. So, whether you're a seasoned business analyst or someone eager to enhance your project management toolkit, join me, Benjamen Walsh, as we navigate the nuances of the Agile V-Model. Get ready for valuable insights, expert interviews, and practical tips that will elevate your business analysis game. Check out: https://aiotplaybook.org/index.php?title=Agile_V-Model#:~:text=The%20Agile%20V%2DModel%20aims,are%20developed%20by%20different%20companies. Also: https://bba.institute/courses/certified-better-business-analyst-level-1/ with the coupon "podcast" for 50% off --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterbusinessanalysis/message

This week, Benjamen from The Better Business Analysis Institute outlines how to become a Better Business Analyst. If you are starting or looking to upskill then listen and follow the steps we walk through Calling all future business analysts! Intrigued by the world of business, data, and problem-solving puzzles? Bridging the gap between business needs and tech solutions sounds like your dream? Then tune in to "Career Crossroads" and discover how to become a Business Analyst (BA)! No matter your background, we'll equip you with the knowledge and skills you need. Explore resources from school, university, online platforms, and even LinkedIn. First, let's crack open the BA landscape. We'll delve into the role, diverse industries, and key skills like communication and critical thinking. Then, we'll build a strong foundation with recommended subjects, clubs, and electives in school. Ready to dive deeper? We'll explore degree options, highlight programs with strong analytical and communication components, and encourage practical experiences like internships. But wait, there's more! Online platforms offer BA courses and certifications, while LinkedIn connects you with professionals, mentors, and potential employers. Pro tip: Network actively, hone your communication skills, stay updated on industry trends, and build a portfolio showcasing your analytical prowess. Remember, your BA journey is unique. So, explore these resources, identify your strengths, and design a learning path that excites you. With dedication and the right skills, you'll unlock a rewarding career as a BA! Ready to start shaping your future? Dive in, explore, and share your BA journey questions in the comments or connect with us on LinkedIn! Remember if you message us today, we will provide you with a 25% off voucher for the Certified Better Business Analyst - Level 1 course. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterbusinessanalysis/message

This week Benjamen talks through the Agile Done Right: Avoiding Common Pitfalls and Optimising Your Workflow. Avoiding Common Pitfalls: Treating Agile as a silver bullet: Agile is a powerful framework, but it's not a magic fix for all project challenges. Discuss the importance of tailoring Agile to your specific context and needs. Waterfalling in Sprints: Resist the urge to cram traditional, sequential phases into short sprints. Emphasize iterative development and continuous feedback. Scope creep: Uncontrolled scope changes can derail Agile projects. Discuss strategies for managing scope effectively, such as backlog prioritization and sprint planning. Communication silos: Break down communication barriers between teams, stakeholders, and clients. Explore tools and techniques for fostering transparency and collaboration. Metrics obsession: Don't get bogged down in measuring everything. Focus on the right metrics that align with your project goals and provide actionable insights. Optimizing Workflow: Embrace cross-functional teams: Foster collaboration between developers, designers, testers, and other stakeholders throughout the development process. Refine your ceremonies: Regularly assess the effectiveness of your Agile ceremonies, such as daily stand-ups and retrospectives, and adapt them as needed. Automate where possible: Leverage automation tools to streamline repetitive tasks and free up time for more creative and strategic work. Celebrate progress and wins: Recognize and reward individual and team achievements to maintain motivation and morale. Continuously learn and improve: Encourage a culture of continuous learning and experimentation. Be open to trying new things and adapting your approach based on feedback and results. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterbusinessanalysis/message

Imagine crafting the coolest app ever, but it crashes constantly, takes hours to load, and keeps your data secure like a paper bag in a hurricane. Not exactly a blockbuster, right? That's where the true superheroes of the tech world step in: Non-Functional Requirements (NFRs)! In this episode, we're ditching the flashy features and diving deep into the often-unsung heroes of successful software - the silent guardians of speed, security, and user satisfaction. Forget Captain America, we're talking Iron Man wielding code instead of a repulsor ray! What are NFRs? Think of them as the "how" behind the "what." They're the invisible forces shaping how a system performs, reacts, and feels. From lightning-fast response times to rock-solid security, NFRs ensure your tech experience doesn't turn into a villainous disaster. Why You Should Care: Ever had an app crash right when you were about to snag the last concert ticket? Or waited an eternity for a page to load, feeling like you were trapped in a dial-up modem era? Neglecting NFRs is like building a house on sand - it might look good at first, but the first real storm will crumble it all. Here is a great starter hero list of Non-Functional Categories for you to focus on for your adventure: 1. Performance: Examples: The system should load web pages in under 2 seconds. The app should process transactions within 500 milliseconds. The database should handle 1000 concurrent users without performance degradation. 2. Security: Examples: User data must be encrypted at rest and in transit. The system must comply with PCI DSS standards for payment card security. Strong authentication mechanisms (e.g., multi-factor authentication) must be in place. 3. Usability: Examples: The interface should be intuitive and easy to navigate for users with varying levels of technical expertise. Error messages should be clear and helpful. The system should be accessible to users with disabilities (e.g., visual impairment). 4. Reliability: Examples: The system should have 99.9% uptime. The database should be able to recover from failures without data loss. The app should be able to handle unexpected inputs without crashing. 5. Availability: Examples: The system should be accessible 24/7, except for scheduled maintenance windows. The system should have redundancy in place to prevent downtime due to hardware failures. 6. Maintainability: Examples: The code should be well-documented and easy to understand. The system should be modular and easy to update. The system should have automated testing in place to detect regressions. 7. Scalability: Examples: The system should be able to handle increasing numbers of users and data without performance degradation. The system should be able to be easily scaled horizontally by adding more servers. 8. Portability: Examples: The system should run on different operating systems (e.g., Windows, Linux, macOS). The system should be compatible with different browsers (e.g., Chrome, Firefox, Safari). 9. Compatibility: Examples: The system should be able to integrate with existing systems and databases. The system should adhere to industry standards (e.g., W3C standards for web development). 10. Regulatory Compliance: Examples: The system should comply with data privacy regulations (e.g., GDPR, CCPA). The system should comply with industry-specific regulations (e.g., HIPAA for healthcare, PCI DSS for payment card processing) --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterbusinessanalysis/message

On today's episode we talk about the 10 Great Tips for Building Your Personal Brand as a BA: Leveraging LinkedIn, Networking & Thought Leadership: 1. Define Your BA Niche & Value Proposition: Tip: Craft a clear elevator pitch outlining your expertise, target audience, and unique value proposition (UVP). Reference: "Personal Branding for Business Analysts: Become a Leader in Your Field" by Brian Lawley (https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandon-parrott-5226b4124) 2. Optimise Your LinkedIn Profile: Tip: Use relevant keywords, showcase achievements, write a compelling "About" section, and utilise rich media (videos, presentations). Reference: "The LinkedIn Sales Playbook: For Social Selling Success" by Koka Sexton (https://www.amason.com/LinkedIn-Sales-Playbook-Tactical-Selling/dp/1544101538) 3. Become a Content Creator & Thought Leader: Tip: Share valuable insights through blog posts, articles, podcasts, or videos on BA topics. Reference: "Content Rules: How to Create Killer Blogs, Podcasts, Videos, Ebooks, Webinars (and More) That Engage Customers and Build Your Brand" by Ann Handley (https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/8102305) 4. Engage in Strategic Networking: Tip: Join relevant LinkedIn groups, connect with key players in your field, participate in online discussions, and attend industry events. Reference: "Fanatical Prospecting: The Sales Bible for the Digital Age" by Jeb Blount (https://www.walmart.com/ip/Fanatical-Prospecting-The-Ultimate-Guide-to-Opening-Sales-Conversations-and-Filling-the-Pipeline-by-Leveraging-Social-Selling-Telephone-Em-9781119144755/46037580) 5. Leverage LinkedIn Features: Tip: Utilise Pulse articles, LinkedIn Live, or LinkedIn Learning to create and share high-quality content. Reference: "The Ultimate Guide to LinkedIn Learning" by LinkedIn Learning (https://learning.linkedin.com/content/dam/me/learning/en-us/pdfs/lil-guide-how-to-use-linkedin-learning.pdf) 6. Build Relationships with Influencers: Tip: Connect with and engage with respected figures in your field, offer valuable insights, and collaborate on projects. Reference: "Linchpin: Are You Indispensable?" by Seth Godin (https://www.amason.com/Linchpin-Are-Indispensable-Seth-Godin/dp/B00509CRG6) 7. Showcase Your Expertise Through Case Studies: Tip: Share successful BA projects you've been involved in, highlighting challenges overcome and positive outcomes achieved. Reference: "Storytelling with Data: A Data-Driven Approach to Effective Communication" by Cole Nussbaumer Knaflic (https://www.amason.com/Data-Driven-Storytelling-AK-Peters-Visualisation/dp/1138197106) 8. Actively Participate in Online Communities: Tip: Contribute to forums, answer questions, offer mentorship, and build a reputation as a helpful and knowledgeable resource. Reference: "Build a Tribe: One Million Ways to Create a Community of Fans for Your Business" by Seth Godin (http://www.shaolintemplemi.org/blog.html) 9. Measure and Adapt Your Strategy: Tip: Track your progress by analysing LinkedIn engagement metrics, website traffic, and audience feedback. Adapt your approach based on insights gained. Reference: "Marketing Analytics: Data-Driven Techniques for Measuring and Improving Your Marketing" by Mike Walker (https://www.amason.com/Marketing-Analytics-Data-Driven-Techniques-Microsoft/dp/111837343X) 10. Stay Authentic and Transparent: Tip: Be genuine in your interactions, share your passions and perspectives, and build trust with your audience. Reference: "Daring Greatly: How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Lead, and Work" by Brené Brown (https://www.amason.com/Daring-Greatly-Courage-Vulnerable-Transforms-ebook/dp/B007P7HRS4) Bonus Tip: Consider joining BA professional organisations and volunteering your expertise to further enhance your network and visibility. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterbusinessanalysis/message

Feeling overwhelmed by your workload? Drowning in deadlines and requests? Say hello to your new mantra: "No means pro." Join us on "The Art of Saying No & Prioritising Like a Pro: A Business Analyst's Guide, let's ditch the guilt, embrace boundaries, and master the magic of saying no (gracefully, of course). In this episode, we'll: From colleagues to clients, we'll show you how to create healthy boundaries and reclaim your control. Join us on Spotify (or your favourite podcast app) and be the BA you were always meant to be: productive, focused, and (gasp!) relaxed. Hit subscribe and let's say no to burnout, yes to balance, and hell yeah to BA brilliance! ✨ #notoburnout #prioritisationpro #businessanalyst #worklifebalance #podcast --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterbusinessanalysis/message

Happy New Year Everyone! I hope you had a refreshing break and a change to turn your brain off and reset. What an awesome 2024 it is going to be with lots of exciting content from The Better Business Analysis Institute (BBAI) to come. The first BBA Podcast is out, so have a listen: Taming the Beast: 5 Ways to Prioritize Requirements and Squash Scope Creep Feeling overwhelmed by ever-growing backlogs and that pesky scope creep monster? Worry not, warriors of requirements, because this episode is your secret weapon. We're diving deep into 5 battle-tested methods to prioritise like a pro and keep your projects on track. First up, let's wrangle those wishy-washy wants with the MoSCoW Method. Must-haves, should-haves, could-haves, won't-haves – it's a stakeholder whisperer's dream, helping categorize features based on impact and feasibility. No more squabbles, just crystal-clear communication. Next, we unleash the power of data with Cost-Benefit Analysis. Resources are precious, so let's weigh the cost of each feature against its juicy business value. Like a financial ninja, we'll find the sweet spot of maximising project impact while minding the budget. Feeling the 80/20 itch? Then the Pareto Principle is your new best friend. This rule of thumb says 20% of your efforts can deliver 80% of the value. Focus on those core functionalities, deliver fast, and leave the fancy bells and whistles for later. Efficiency, thy name is Pareto! Agile fans, rejoice! We're all about continuous prioritisation with user stories, backlog refinement, and estimation techniques. It's a living, breathing project plan that adapts to changing needs and keeps stakeholders in the loop. No more surprises, just iterative awesomeness. Finally, remember, change is inevitable, but chaos is optional. That's where the Change Control Process comes in. It's like a gatekeeper for your project scope, assessing every tweak request with scrutiny. Only approved changes make the cut, ensuring goals and resources stay aligned. So, sharpen your prioritisation pencils, listen to this episode, and get ready to conquer the ever-shifting landscape of business requirements. Scope creep will tremble at your feet! Happy analysing, BA heroes! #2024 #businessanalyst --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterbusinessanalysis/message