Business Analyst: What You Need to Know About the Job
A business analyst plays a role in the business process continuum of the company. He works closely with the company’s stakeholders to gain a better understanding of the organization’s structure, operations and policies. This will allow you to see the areas that need improvement. Seeing these areas, he will recommend solutions that the organization will implement to achieve its goals.
Work description
A business analyst acts as a bridge between management and the Information Technology department of an organization. He works closely with both parties to see that all stages of the business process work to achieve company goals.
If he sees a stage that needs improvement, he will propose changes that allow the company to achieve the desired results. BAs may also touch areas involving human resources, finance, and technology.
Business analysts are a hot item in the job market right now. Many companies need them due to the increasing reliance of companies on technology.
Why is there a need for BA?
It is natural for companies not to invest in an IT project unless it is backed by solid business data. Based on these, a trusted BA works to create a solution to a current problem by acting as a bridge between management and the people or departments who can make it happen.
The CIO of a company relies on the BA to design and manage a project to solve a problem. Without the BA, a project could become too expensive or be riddled with errors. These can have a detrimental effect on the credibility and reputation of the company. There should always be a business analyst to monitor the flow of the business system, manage a solution to problems and propose methods that can help improve productivity and reduce costs.
Expected Skills
A good candidate for this position should have a college degree and at least five years of experience in a specific industry. Important skills include problem solving, risk assessment, negotiation, software development, good communication, and attention to detail. Programmers and systems analysts who have become BAs are the most competent candidates for any open position.
Where to find good BA
It may sound unethical, but it’s true: companies can find some of the most competent BAs at other companies doing similar businesses. A BA who is trying to find a similar position at another company should consider companies that do similar business as their current employer. This can help shorten your job search, as well as your adjustment period once you find a job.
Another potential source for BAs is academia, but candidates from this source do not have the experience and exposure that most companies want.
Business analysts receive an annual salary range of between $45,000 and $100,000.