In simple words, a business analyst is a person responsible for analyzing business activities. They play a major role in taking profitable decisions for the organization based on data analysis. It is a known fact that business analysts indirectly perform actions that significantly impact the financial aspects of the organization. Typically, a certified Professional in Business Analysis is said to communicate with the top management and all stakeholders for getting the changes approved.
Before an individual enters the business analysis career environment he/she is required to understand the business and how it works. Without being able to comprehend such knowledge, aspiring business analysts would not be the right fit within the organization. There is no specific set of roles and responsibilities defined for business analysts as they play diverse roles. However, let us have a detailed look at the most common roles and responsibilities taken up by the Professional in Business Analyst (PBA).
Roles and Responsibilities of a Professional in Business Analysis
The modern role of a Business Analyst is quite complex as he/she needs to have extensive knowledge of business activities. There are various technical aspects that have to be known by a business analyst before developing solutions to business problems. Moreover, Professionals in Business Analysis are required to prove that the changes suggested by them are more fruitful for the organization than the current processes. Therefore, based on the requirements of the job, a business analyst can take up the role of Business Process Analyst, IT Business Analyst, System Analyst, Data Analyst, UX Analyst, and so on.
As per the roles, certified business analysts need to possess advanced analytical and technical skills. In addition, having soft skills like communication and problem solving entitles certified business analysts to effectively and efficiently work on projects. Having such an advanced Business Analyst skillset further allows professionals to meet business requirements without facing any obstacles.
However, the major responsibilities of a business analyst are listed below.
a. Maintain stakeholder engagements
A Professional in Business Analysis is required to understand and maintain fruitful engagements with all the stakeholders. A BA needs to possess the ability to collaborate with colleagues as well as outsiders for knowing the business requirements. This assists in taking decisions for improving business processes taking place within the organization.
b. Analyze data
Analyzing data is not easy as it seems for enterprises that depend on available information for making decisions. Business analysts are often necessitated to analyze data available within the organization for improving the processes and deriving logical solutions. Without proper data analysis, business analysts may force organizations to face unknown risks.
c. Monitor and plan
Another major responsibility of business analysts is to monitor all the business activities carried out within the organization. Whilst assessing the business environment, PBA-certified professionals engage in planning their strategies for improving and modifying the internal structure. This helps organizations stay ahead of their competitors and dodge the uncertainties of advancements.
d. Learn and adapt
A business analyst is required to know various aspects of the organization in order to make apt decisions. This necessitates professionals to constantly learn through certifications like PMI PBA to stay updated with modern business techniques and practices. In addition, being adaptable allows business analysts to easily incorporate changes within the organization.
e. Conduct research
Conducting research is the primary responsibility of every business analyst. Although reasons for research can vary as per business requirements, a BA is required to conduct thorough research before making decisions. Conclusions from this research allow Professionals in Business Analysis to review internal processes and improve them if required. As a result, researching and reviewing becomes the most common responsibility that a business analyst is required to carry out.
f. Develop staff
With advancements in technology and other sectors, an organization is required to stay flexible at all times. In such situations, business analysts are necessitated to train and develop employees to avoid resistance. Training in the early stages allows the organizations to stay prepared for unknown threats that may impact the organization. Along with business process improvements, certified business analysts need to ensure employees embrace the improvements simultaneously.
Conclusion:
Professionals willing to pursue a career in Business Analysis need to understand these aforementioned roles and responsibilities. Gaining such an understanding allows professionals to choose whether it is the right career option for them. Additionally, professionals already pursuing jobs in this domain can acquire the advanced skillset through PMI’s Professional in Business Analysis Certification.
The PBA Certification is designed to validate the business analysis skills of professionals. Undergoing PBA Training session further allows individuals to acquire knowledge of modern practices through real-life examples. Clearing the PBA Exam and securing the certification is the easiest way a business analyst can enhance his/her career growth.
