BABOK_Guide_v3_member_copy

Perspectives
The Information Technology Perspective
architecture, software testing experience, or other technical skills. However,
development-related skills or technical skills are not necessary for a business
analyst to be successful within an IT environment. It is important for the business
analyst to have a strong understanding of the detail required within a
requirements package to support technical solutions, as well as an understanding
of what is technically feasible within the constraints of an organization’s technical
architecture. These skills will enable a business analyst to work with all
stakeholders to design a business solution framework which will also allow the
technical team the flexibility to design a technical solution.
Business analysts use influencing and facilitation skills when working with
stakeholders. Negotiation skills are frequently used when working with business
and technical staff to come to agreements and decisions if the costs of a solution
(either in budget, time, or architectural impact) conflict with the desired business
outcome.
Systems thinking is a crucial competency for business analysts practicing in an IT
environment. Systems thinking supports the ability of the business analyst to see
the larger picture including any other applications or technical aspects which may
be impacted, the details of the specific need, and possible technical solutions.
Systems thinking also supports the ability to identify impacts to people, processes,
and software which are not necessarily directly changed as part of an IT
development effort, and to analyze the risks and possible outcomes of those
impacts.
11.3.5 Impact on Knowledge Areas
This section explains how specific business analysis practices within information
technology are mapped to business analysis tasks and practices as defined by the
BABOK ® Guide. It also describes how each knowledge area is applied or modified
within the IT discipline.
Each knowledge area lists techniques relevant to an IT perspective. Techniques
used in the discipline of information technology do not deviate, to any great
extent, from the BABOK ® Guide techniques. BABOK ® Guide techniques are
found in the Techniques chapter of the BABOK ® Guide. This is not intended to be
an exhaustive list of techniques but rather to highlight the types of techniques
used by business analysts while performing the tasks within the knowledge area.
Complimentary IIBA® Member Copy. Not for Distribution or Resale.
.1 Business Analysis Planning and Monitoring
A business analysis approach is a fundamental communication tool which can be
used to identify resources required for business analysis work and ensure
adequate time for the analysis effort. A well-defined business analysis plan
integrates into the overall project plan and provides business analysts with the
opportunity to define and schedule the business analysis activities for the project.
Many organizations have some standards and processes in place, which may
identify certain analysis tasks and deliverables. If these are not in place, the
business analyst identifies these tasks and deliverables based on the needs of the
specific initiative.
401