What Is a Business Analyst?

What is a Business Analyst?

Module 1, Assignment 1

Chapters 1 & 2

Erica Berrios

June 6, 2014

MGMT 250—Introduction to Business Analysis

Dr. Novella S. Hill

The definition for a Business Analyst allows for many different facets to one role. When looking at the role of the business analyst one can note that they will be responsible for IT changes, business process changes, compliance issues, and logistics to name a few. With all of the roles that an analyst must play in a business what are some qualifications that would be required? How does a business owner/manager find the perfect person to fit all of the roles required?

There are many schools of thought when it comes to the analyst position. Some may argue that since the role deals with changes in IT that a person with a strong IT background may be best for the position. However, there are those that believe and understand that an intricate knowledge of the “ins and outs” of the business is an important trait for the Analyst to possess. In a perfect business situation it may seem that knowledge in both facets would be important.

Role of a Business Analyst

Business Analysis: Best Practices for Success defines a business analyst as a team member that is fully versed in how to increase productivity, lower costs, and comply with regulations from both the business and IT perspective (Blais, 2012). This is a tall order for a team member and finding a versatile, and knowledgeable member may not be easy for a business. It seems that the job title of a business analyst has not always been clearly defined and the Business Analysis Body of Knowledge defines the position as any person who performs business analysis activities, no matter what their title or organizational role may be (Bradenburg, 2014).

With the definition of the role of a Business Analyst being so vast it may be difficult for a new college graduate...