Hi,
About me: I've been working in a local government job on the IT side of things for around four years managing small IT related projects for the education service (under the generic title of 'information officer'). I would like to get into business analysis more. I have degree in computer science but am not someone who enjoys programming. Have been involved with projects improving systems by making the online...e.g. online enrolment to courses, admission to schools and migration of school email/internet systems. Typically, mapping the requirements and processes and acting as the middle man between ICT and the customers. I work in a department that deals with data but like with progrmamming i am not someone who likes sitting in front of the pc all days sifting trhough numbers using access and excel.
The trouble I have is that local government work is dead end these days and not particularly well paid (lost pay recently because of budget cuts). I'd like to get some experience in the private sector but from what I've seen there are a lot of business analysts around and very few jobs in my area.
Can someone please give me advice on how I can give myself a chance with a wider range of BA or project roles?
I know that an agile experience is sought after but I suppose I haven't worked in an environment which is strictly agile. I'm also looking at both prince2 and iseb qualifications.Is it important in this line of work to specialise in a particular area? e.g. I've noticed that a lot of jobs ask for experience in a financial or insurance environment using particular systems. I like the idea of one day doing contracting work in an area where pay is good.
You mentioned Prince2 and ISEB so I'm guessing you are in England or somewhere else in Europe. Things may be different in those markets when it comes to qualifications so hopefully others can weigh in.
Here in the states, based upon your degree and your experience I would think you could find private sector work as a BA.. You're basically filling that role already even if you don't have the title. Yes, certain industries prefer experience in those industries, especially financial and healthcare. But it's not necessarily a must have.
Consider volunteering 5-10 hours per week to a start-up or non-profit to create the role you want and gain experience. Companies with limited money are often happy to let you help if its free for them.
Thanks...that's a very encouraging post. Yes, I'm from the Uk but don't as yet have the typical business analyst qualifications and maybe work in another way to what is considered the industry standard...
Great idea about the volunteering though - any idea on how I would go about finding start up or smaller companies to volunteer with?
Thanks again
I have found that attending technology networking events after work during the week is a very good way to meet others from small companies and start-ups. Of course anyone can attend these events but it's typically a higher percentage of people from small businesses that attend than big corporations. You don't have to force it. Start meeting new people and building your network and eventually an opportunity will present itself. Often faster than you expect.
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