https://modernanalyst.com RSS feeds for Business Analyst Community & Resources | Modern Analyst 60 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/7146/Provenance-UX-How-to-Specify-Why-Should-I-Believe-This-in-Product-Requirements.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=7146 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=7146&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/7146/Provenance-UX-How-to-Specify-Why-Should-I-Believe-This-in-Product-Requirements.aspx This article shows business analysts, systems analysts, and product managers how to build “trust into the UI” by writing practical provenance requirements for AI-enabled features. It introduces a simple Provenance Requirements Template that turns vague goals like “show sources” into testable product behavior: when to display citations (ideally tied to specific claims), how to handle conflicting sources with a clear tie-breaker, how to define freshness SLAs by claim type and what to do when data is stale, and how to support confidence/uncertainty, “what changed,” and audit exports. The takeaway is a repeatable way to specify “why should I believe this?” so answers come with receipts, stay current, and can be verified or audited when needed. adrian Sun, 08 Feb 2026 05:02:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:7146 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/7148/The-Most-Expensive-Word-in-Tech-Just.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=7148 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=7148&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/7148/The-Most-Expensive-Word-in-Tech-Just.aspx In tech teams, the word “just” (“just add a field,” “just change a label,” “just add an exception”) is a warning sign—not because people are wrong to ask, but because they’re only seeing the visible slice of the work. This article introduces the “Just Tax” framework to make hidden costs visible: Data, Decision, Dependency, Documentation, Deployment, and Diplomacy taxes. Through three quick BA-centric mini-scenarios, it shows how “small” changes become requirements debt when definitions, approvals, downstream systems, testing, and stakeholder expectations aren’t accounted for. It closes with practical, copy-paste lines BAs can use to keep momentum while turning “just” into a clear tradeoff. adrian Sun, 01 Feb 2026 05:34:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:7148 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/7144/Guardrails-Catalog-How-to-Write-Allowed-Not-Allowed-Requirements.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=7144 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=7144&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/7144/Guardrails-Catalog-How-to-Write-Allowed-Not-Allowed-Requirements.aspx This article shows BAs, systems analysts, and product managers how to turn vague AI “safety” statements into clear, testable requirements. It introduces a simple artifact called a Guardrails Catalog—a reusable list of Allowed / Not Allowed rules that define boundaries for AI features (forbidden actions, restricted data, safe defaults, and what the system must do instead). The core technique is writing each guardrail like acceptance criteria: specify the trigger, the prohibited outcome, the required safe behavior, the exact refusal wording the user should see, and a straightforward validation step. The article includes practical guardrail patterns and examples (e.g., no irreversible actions without confirmation, redact sensitive identifiers, refuse unauthorized requests, don’t guess when ambiguous, don’t invent sources) plus a short list of common pitfalls to avoid. A separate downloadable template is linked for teams to copy/paste and use immediately. adrian Sun, 25 Jan 2026 21:25:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:7144 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/7117/The-2027-Inflection-Point-A-Strategic-Blueprint-for-Survival.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=7117 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=7117&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/7117/The-2027-Inflection-Point-A-Strategic-Blueprint-for-Survival.aspx An inflection point. A forcing function. A once-per-civilization opportunity to prove that human judgment, contextual understanding, and adaptive intelligence remain indispensable even as artificial intelligence transforms everything around us. You're not preparing for 2027. You're defining it. Act accordingly. adrian Mon, 08 Dec 2025 00:16:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:7117 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/7082/Thinking-Outside-the-Box-with-Paradigm-Shifts.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=7082 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=7082&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/7082/Thinking-Outside-the-Box-with-Paradigm-Shifts.aspx Thinking outside the box. Making a paradigm shift. Looking at the problem in a brand-new way. Taking a fresh approach. These expressions all refer to changing how we look at a difficult problem to solve it in a more effective manner. People naturally get stuck in their established ways of thinking. It’s all we know at any given time. But sometimes that's not sufficient. Instead of continuing to pursue the current strategy that doesn’t work, we must shake up our thinking, sometimes radically. adrian Mon, 10 Nov 2025 00:17:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:7082 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/6790/Top-7-Takeaway-Points-from-a-50-Year-Career-in-IT.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=6790 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=6790&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/6790/Top-7-Takeaway-Points-from-a-50-Year-Career-in-IT.aspx I measure the success of my 50+ year career in IT by the positive feedback I’ve received from colleagues, stakeholders, students, and readers. I started as a Cobol programmer, progressed to software analyst/designer, and for the last 30 years have performed the role of business analyst. Interspersed in those years I’ve shared what I’d learned through writing, teaching, presenting, and mentoring. This article discusses the top seven “Takeaway Points” from the over-30 BA resources I’ve produced related to requirements for information systems. adrian Sun, 08 Jun 2025 21:20:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:6790 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/6672/How-Business-Analysts-Can-Harness-Prompt-Engineering-to-Drive-Insights.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=6672 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=6672&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/6672/How-Business-Analysts-Can-Harness-Prompt-Engineering-to-Drive-Insights.aspx The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) has drastically changed the business world, allowing companies to get useful information from huge amounts of data. The job of business analysts is very important in this change because they connect raw data to strategy decisions. One new skill that can help them make a bigger difference is prompt engineering, which is the art and science of making exact inputs to get the best results from AI models. By acquiring this skill, business analysts get insights that have never been seen before, Utilize AI solutions to fit the needs of their organizations, and stay necessary in a time when technology is fast pacing. adrian Mon, 27 Jan 2025 02:10:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:6672 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/6663/Coloring-Inside-the-Lines-Constraints-in-Software-Development.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=6663 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=6663&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/6663/Coloring-Inside-the-Lines-Constraints-in-Software-Development.aspx Software consultant Tim Lister defined project success as “meeting the set of all requirements and constraints held as expectations by key stakeholders.” There’s a vast body of literature on software requirements. In contrast, little is written about the various kinds of constraints that stakeholders might impose on a software initiative. Identifying, communicating, and working within constraints are essential aspects of successful software development. Let’s begin with a definition: “A constraint is a restriction that limits the choices available for a product’s specification, design, construction, configuration, or project management.” A software initiative is subject to three major classes of constraints: product, project, and process. adrian Sun, 12 Jan 2025 20:56:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:6663 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/6595/Visualize-Organize-Realize-The-Magic-of-Mind-Mapping.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=6595 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=6595&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/6595/Visualize-Organize-Realize-The-Magic-of-Mind-Mapping.aspx I don’t know if you are, but I am a very visual person.  When I see a diagram or process flow it helps me understand concepts quicker than reading it solely in text.  I have found that my mind just works that way and I tend to always make pictures when I am breaking down something complex or trying to understand a concept. I have found I even document my personal and professional goals visually and I do that through mind mapping.  I have found mind mapping to be a great way of brainstorming and organizing my thoughts and I want to share the magic of mind mapping with you.  adrian Sun, 08 Sep 2024 23:55:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:6595 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/6429/Stuck-Going-in-Circles-Use-a-Circular-Flow-Diagram-CFD.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=6429 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=6429&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/6429/Stuck-Going-in-Circles-Use-a-Circular-Flow-Diagram-CFD.aspx In the intricate world of business analysis, understanding the complex interactions between various economic agents is crucial for making informed decisions. One tool that plays a pivotal role in comprehending these interactions is the Circular Flow Diagram or CFD. Originating from the field of economics, this visual representation has found its way into the toolkit of business analysts, offering a holistic view of how money, goods, and services circulate within a vertical industry or within an organization. In this article, we delve into the essence of the Circular Flow Diagram and explore its applications in the realm of business and systems analysis. adrian Sun, 21 Jan 2024 23:12:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:6429 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/6260/How-to-Build-a-Grounded-Capability-Model.aspx#Comments 1 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=6260 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=6260&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/6260/How-to-Build-a-Grounded-Capability-Model.aspx Business Capabilities are at the heart of an organization’s planning ecosystem. Capability mapping serves many purposes, two of which are critical. First, business capabilities are instrumental in setting priorities more quickly focusing on the most profitable initiatives first. Second, well crafted detailed capability-based roadmap allows agile project planning that is more accurate, less risky, and takes less time. Transform VA Sun, 30 Apr 2023 21:25:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:6260 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/6128/3-Ways-to-Get-Out-of-the-Trap-of-Solving-Problems.aspx#Comments 1 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=6128 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=6128&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/6128/3-Ways-to-Get-Out-of-the-Trap-of-Solving-Problems.aspx As Business Analysts, when we’re at the sharp end of solution delivery that doesn’t match a customers needs, at that time it just can’t be rectified and we can’t help thinking that we might have been able to prevent this at the early stages. In this article we’ll explore 3 ways to get out the trap of being solution oriented up front to shift more into the problem and needs to get better requirements.  adrian Sun, 04 Sep 2022 22:34:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:6128 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/6095/The-Role-of-a-Business-Analyst-in-Digital-Transformation.aspx#Comments 2 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=6095 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=6095&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/6095/The-Role-of-a-Business-Analyst-in-Digital-Transformation.aspx We hear the buzzword “business transformation” everywhere. It has become almost expected of any organization to announce they are on their digital transformation journey. What does it mean? There are many definitions of digital transformation. This abundance points to a broad interpretation of the term. The ambiguity of these statements reflects vague expectations of many organizations embarking on their “digital transformation journeys”. Transform VA Sun, 14 Aug 2022 09:07:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:6095 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/6094/How-A-Problem-Statement-Kept-Me-In-Control-Of-My-Analysis.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=6094 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=6094&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/6094/How-A-Problem-Statement-Kept-Me-In-Control-Of-My-Analysis.aspx When engaging on projects we need to lead our clients to get the outcomes we need for analysis. If we act passively and don’t take charge then they’ll take things all over the place and create chaos. In this article we’ll explore how a problem statement acts as a powerful tool to keep control of our engagement and analysis right through the project lifecycle. Transform VA Sun, 24 Jul 2022 22:07:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:6094 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/5986/No-Code-and-Low-Code-Platforms-Demand-Process-Modeling-Competence.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=5986 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=5986&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/5986/No-Code-and-Low-Code-Platforms-Demand-Process-Modeling-Competence.aspx Thanks to infrastructure as a service (IaaS) and software as a service (SaaS) architectures, the utility of and business case for model-driven, no-code and low-code platforms have become more compelling than ever. More and more enterprises are entrusting their digital transformation, regulatory compliance, and business process management objectives to model-driven, no-code or low-code business application platforms.  These model driven platforms also raise the bar for the business process modeling skills of the business analysts, systems analysts and process owners who use them. Transform VA Mon, 17 Jan 2022 05:46:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:5986 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/5931/Design-Demands-Iteration.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=5931 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=5931&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/5931/Design-Demands-Iteration.aspx There’s always more than one design solution for a software problem and seldom a single best solution. The first design approach you conceive won’t be the best option. As one experienced designer explained it: You haven’t done your design job if you haven’t thought of at least three solutions, discarded all of them because they weren’t good enough, and then combined the best parts of all of them into a superior fourth solution. Sometimes, after considering three options, you realize that you don’t really understand the problem. Transform VA Sun, 03 Oct 2021 07:26:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:5931 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/5914/Root-Cause-Analysis-Using-a-Fishbone-Diagram-and-the-Five-Whys.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=5914 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=5914&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/5914/Root-Cause-Analysis-Using-a-Fishbone-Diagram-and-the-Five-Whys.aspx I was teaching a business analysis course recently and noted that few students had used a Fishbone Diagram along with the Five Whys for root cause analysis. This motivated me to write an article on root cause analysis using the combo method along with a short example. Transform VA Sun, 12 Sep 2021 08:32:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:5914 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/5654/From-an-Intermediate-to-a-Strategic-Senior-Business-Analyst.aspx#Comments 1 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=5654 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=5654&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/5654/From-an-Intermediate-to-a-Strategic-Senior-Business-Analyst.aspx It is strange how something that is supposed to be simple is actually so complex.  Something that is supposed to be a matter of linear career progression can actually end up in a state of a continuous loop, with no way of terminating such a loop.  A point of stagnation and frustration. This is a quandary facing many intermediate business analysts. They do not know how to shift gears and move one notch up and be senior business analysts - who play a strategic role in helping their business stakeholders bring their strategies to life through the right initiatives. Transform VA Sun, 09 Aug 2020 23:35:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:5654 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/5596/COVID-19-There-was-never-a-better-time-for-business-analysts-to-demonstrate-their-value.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=5596 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=5596&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/5596/COVID-19-There-was-never-a-better-time-for-business-analysts-to-demonstrate-their-value.aspx The COVID-19 crisis is reshaping businesses and livelihoods, and seasoned and new BAs alike have an unparalleled opportunity to put their analytical skills to great use. Whether you are still employed, or has been laid off or furloughed, now--while we navigate the pandemic crisis—is a good time to demonstrate the value of business analysis and the contributions you can bring to your current or future employer. Here are three examples of how you can accomplish that. adrian Mon, 11 May 2020 04:22:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:5596 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/5580/Detailed-Requirements-for-Fully-Automating-a-Business-Activity.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=5580 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=5580&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/5580/Detailed-Requirements-for-Fully-Automating-a-Business-Activity.aspx This final article in the Requirements in Context series discusses detailed requirements for a fully automated business activity. ‘Fully automated’ means that the business information system (BIS) is expected to perform the activity from start to finish without user involvement. A simple example is the system automatically posting a monthly fee against customer accounts. A more complex example is the system utilizing customer-specific pricing details to determine the amount charged for a purchase made by a customer. Transform VA Tue, 14 Apr 2020 00:08:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:5580 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/5438/Why-Modeling-Is-an-Essential-Business-Analysis-Technique.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=5438 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=5438&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/5438/Why-Modeling-Is-an-Essential-Business-Analysis-Technique.aspx Visual analysis models provide a powerful set of tools that let business analysts depict system information at various levels of abstraction. These models serve as an aid to understanding, as well as an aid to communicating. Alas, I fear that modeling is somewhat of a neglected practice. I believe modeling is an essential skill every BA should master. Here’s why. Transform VA Sun, 22 Mar 2020 14:27:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:5438 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/5499/Time-to-Clean-the-Garage-Again-and-Use-Lean-5S.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=5499 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=5499&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/5499/Time-to-Clean-the-Garage-Again-and-Use-Lean-5S.aspx Five S can be applied in any work environment and prepares a work area for a follow-on Lean process improvement effort. In this case, 5S prepares my garage for Lean process improvement in doing home activities like automobile maintenance, appliance repair, and hobbies like gardening and woodworking. But, remember the preparation benefit is only realized if 5S is sustained. As I said I am the worst (ugly) in keeping the “new world order” in my garage. Transform VA Sun, 15 Dec 2019 21:19:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:5499 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/5475/How-Will-It-Work-The-Future-How-Viewpoint.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=5475 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=5475&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/5475/How-Will-It-Work-The-Future-How-Viewpoint.aspx The intention of these viewpoints is to make it easier to see and understand the real business problem. This article focuses on the fourth viewpoint, the Future-How, which looks at the solution to the business problem. It does this by assessing alternatives, and then choosing the best solution to that real business problem. Transform VA Sun, 08 Dec 2019 23:12:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:5475 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/5456/Integrative-Thinking-Mental-Models-for-Business-Analysts-Part-II.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=5456 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=5456&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/5456/Integrative-Thinking-Mental-Models-for-Business-Analysts-Part-II.aspx Learning about mental models and how to apply them to their work is one of the best investments for business analysts interested in achieving the level of deep thinking that leads to better outcomes for their projects and organizations. The first article in this series described what mental models are and talked about the first mental model covered, second order thinking. In this second installment we discuss another mental model that that can help business analysts become better problem solvers: integrative thinking. Transform VA Sun, 03 Nov 2019 08:44:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:5456 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/5444/Trips-R-You-Web-based-Flight-Booking-Case-Study.aspx#Comments 1 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=5444 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=5444&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/5444/Trips-R-You-Web-based-Flight-Booking-Case-Study.aspx The purpose of the Trips-R-You Flight Booking Case Study is to provide an integrated, end-to-end set of requirement examples. In IIBA® BABOK® V3 terminology, end-to-end means from Business Requirements to Stakeholder Requirements to Solution and Transition Requirements. This case study, and associated artefacts, use the more traditional business terms Goals, High-level Requirements (HLRs), and Detail Requirements. Only functional requirements are addressed, and only within the context of a project chartered to deliver an IT-based solution. adrian Sun, 29 Sep 2019 05:30:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:5444 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/5428/Experience-Driven-Development-Design-for-real-people.aspx#Comments 2 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=5428 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=5428&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/5428/Experience-Driven-Development-Design-for-real-people.aspx For the business, it means they not only need to understand the problem the customers are trying to solve - they need to understand that problem in a context and design a full end-to-end experience of solving it. Some people call this process “human-centered design”, some - just using common sense when designing stuff.  adrian Mon, 02 Sep 2019 21:12:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:5428 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/5408/Be-the-bird-in-your-projects-to-become-a-better-BA.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=5408 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=5408&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/5408/Be-the-bird-in-your-projects-to-become-a-better-BA.aspx The reason why top performing business analysts tend to be so effective in complex projects, even when their domain knowledge is limited, is because of their ability to see things from a higher angle and with more nuanced colors. adrian Sun, 11 Aug 2019 20:26:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:5408 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/5343/Breaking-the-Complex-Down-to-Simple.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=5343 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=5343&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/5343/Breaking-the-Complex-Down-to-Simple.aspx Process modeling/mapping/flowing, can be an art, and science, based on the maturity of the organization, knowledge of those doing this work in the organization, and many other factors. What I have found can be challenging is identifying the actual processes to model/map/flow. The fight identification may not occur on the first attempt as this work can be quite iterative, however, there are some concepts that can help make the identification a little easier Transform VA Sun, 12 May 2019 21:14:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:5343 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/5197/Framing-a-New-Piece-of-Work.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=5197 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=5197&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/5197/Framing-a-New-Piece-of-Work.aspx Sometimes I find it difficult to explore new pieces of work in a structured way. When given a new challenge / piece of work it’s easy to jump straight into a solution. However as BAs we first need to understand the problem area better. Transform VA Sun, 16 Dec 2018 23:05:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:5197 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/5067/Who-is-a-Business-Analyst.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=5067 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=5067&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/5067/Who-is-a-Business-Analyst.aspx In a large firm, a business analyst (BA) organization makes an effort to identify, analyze and provide a solution to the above questions. A BA organization is a prime pillar in optimizing resources to provide maximum value out of it to the business. A BA organization consists of business analysts in various roles like Product Manager, Program Manager, Project Manager, Business Analyst, Business Systems Analyst, Business Systems Consultant, Business Process Analyst etc.  The prime objective is to analyze business to maximize value addition. To understand more about the BA organization, it is important to understand what is business analysis Nimil Parikh Sun, 17 Jun 2018 22:20:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:5067 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/4905/How-are-top-performing-business-analysts-different-than-an-average-BA.aspx#Comments 11 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=4905 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4905&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/4905/How-are-top-performing-business-analysts-different-than-an-average-BA.aspx During a recent presentation to business analysts, I used one of my consulting projects as an example of how to apply an analysis technique we were discussing. A member of the audience asked, “What made this company hire you as a BA consultant to tackle this project, when they already have so many in-house product managers and business analysts on their teams?” Transform VA Mon, 05 Feb 2018 01:20:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4905 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/3859/The-Goal-Is-to-Solve-the-Problem.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=3859 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3859&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/3859/The-Goal-Is-to-Solve-the-Problem.aspx A requirement is “a condition or capability needed by a user to solve a problem or to achieve an objective” (AKA a goal). Thinking in terms of problems and goals thus is a core competence for the requirements engineer. But what in fact is a problem or a goal? This may seem to be a rather philosophical question. As requirements engineers we should be quite specific on this point as the problems and goals of our clients are the raison d’être for our work. adrian Sun, 15 Oct 2017 04:30:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3859 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/3700/3-Ways-to-Change-Your-Thinking-in-2017.aspx#Comments 1 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=3700 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3700&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/3700/3-Ways-to-Change-Your-Thinking-in-2017.aspx Is your team struggling with the transition to modern requirements practices? As many teams explore and experiment with modern practices and agile, they often jump to apply tactical methods and techniques. But does anything really change?   Most teams work really hard and don’t see results. Or they find a few early benefits, but get stuck on a low plateau. They often give up and slide back into their old habits. Why? Because they’ve modified surface-level tactics, but haven’t modified mindsets. AngelaWick Sun, 15 Jan 2017 10:56:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3700 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/3692/How-to-tell-stories-as-a-Business-Analyst.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=3692 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3692&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/3692/How-to-tell-stories-as-a-Business-Analyst.aspx A story is defined as a narrative or tale, true or imaginary. Each story has a moral hidden in it. A story writer won't directly say that hard work and patience is the key to success. Instead the writer came up with a story of Hare and Tortoise. And if we observe carefully, stories are everywhere; we ask a friend about her love story, we watch a prime time news story, we ask a new friend about his life's story, the movie I watched the other day had a good story.  Wed, 28 Dec 2016 10:33:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3692 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/3645/Deep-Dive-Models-in-Agile-Series-Business-Objectives-Models.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=3645 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3645&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/3645/Deep-Dive-Models-in-Agile-Series-Business-Objectives-Models.aspx This short paper series, “Deep Dive Models in Agile”, provides valuable information for the Product Owner community to use additional good practices in their projects. In each paper in this series, we take one of the most commonly used visual models in agile and explain how to create one and how to use one to help build, groom, or elaborate your agile backlog. Transform VA Mon, 05 Dec 2016 00:48:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3645 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/3581/KPIs-for-Business-Analysts.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=3581 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3581&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/3581/KPIs-for-Business-Analysts.aspx Business analysts’ performance and how we could measure it appeared to be a hot topic of interest for the Business Analysis community.   “If you can’t measure it, you can’t manage it” (Peter Drucker) – this statement hides lots of questions for the Business Analysis managers, like what to measure, how to assess, quantifiable or qualifiable metrics to use?  Transform VA Mon, 25 Jul 2016 00:16:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3581 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/3523/Use-Uncertainty-to-Win-Business.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=3523 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3523&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/3523/Use-Uncertainty-to-Win-Business.aspx A bid is like a product that, once designed, the team must be able to deliver it. This delivery includes manufacturing the product, testing it, preparing the marketing for the product launch and finally launch it.  We propose a staged approach that replace guessing a number with qualitative investigation. The model suggested, distilled from experience, shows how estimates are transformed into effort and, ultimately, into a coherent story with a price tag attached. iavi.rotberg@endava.com Sun, 19 Jun 2016 12:40:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3523 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/3426/We-Are-Called-Analysts-for-a-Reason-Observations-from-the-Field.aspx#Comments 40 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=3426 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3426&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/3426/We-Are-Called-Analysts-for-a-Reason-Observations-from-the-Field.aspx I am constantly coming across alleged ‘business analysts’, many new to the industry, sauntering confidently into a project or an organization. Typically, the first thing they do when assigned requirements elicitation is organize a workshop. These people are engaging, charming, energetic, and, in many cases, evangelistic. They are very adept at gaining the undivided attention of their audience.  However, their primary and, in most cases, their only concern is determining what the client wants and what the problem is without a thought to a workable action plan to improve anything.  Transform VA Mon, 08 Feb 2016 06:28:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3426 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/3367/Customer-Journey-Mapping-for-Business-Analysts.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=3367 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3367&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/3367/Customer-Journey-Mapping-for-Business-Analysts.aspx Customer journey mapping is a great way to understand your customer intimately to provide insights into providing targeted customer experience that empower the customer positively to drive better business outcomes.  This technique places the customer first with a deep emotional understanding, then looks backwards toward the experiences provided by the operating model, thus enabling good aspects to be reinforced and negative ones to be managed. It provides a complete 360 end to end experience of the customer to be realized driving customer insights, allowing more blue sky approaches to offsetting emotional deficits... pomifritz Sun, 29 Nov 2015 21:52:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3367 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/3361/Design-Thinking-for-Business-Analysts.aspx#Comments 4 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=3361 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3361&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/3361/Design-Thinking-for-Business-Analysts.aspx This article extends design thinking into a process and method that uses a range of common Business Analysis techniques to drive engagement through collaboration. It provides more structure to either side of the creative process to one better frame the domain of concern, and secondly after creativity has produced ideas, to prototype, refine, test and learn. The article also positions this process as a better way to arrive at a business case or pre-project phase, since it provides enormous insights through an engaging discovery process; something that would never occur within a traditional environment into investigation investment feasibility. pomifritz Sun, 11 Oct 2015 18:59:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3361 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/3328/Problem-Solving-for-Business-Analysts.aspx#Comments 5 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=3328 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3328&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/3328/Problem-Solving-for-Business-Analysts.aspx This article explores the discipline of problem solving. Some might consider problem solving an art, while others might define it as science. The reality is a little in between since part of problem solving involves creativity, which by definition cannot be rationalized as science since we are basically unaware or not conscious of it occurring. Creative formulation of new concepts and ideas is a process lies deep within the sub consciousness and we are only aware of the output of the creative process; a new idea is a good example. We don’t understand how the idea was created, but we know we thought of it. Mon, 10 Aug 2015 03:31:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3328 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/3287/How-not-to-get-lost-in-data-jungle.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=3287 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3287&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/3287/How-not-to-get-lost-in-data-jungle.aspx Data migration is typically the most forgotten or underestimated component of an IT project which is the process of making a copy of data and moving it from one system to another, preferably without disrupting or disabling active business processes. On some occasions, it is not easy to understand that a data migration is needed in the project and most of the times data migration is not seen as an item that its requirements needs to be captured during analysis phase. That’s why migration related problems begin during development or testing phase when data need is identified or when the data from the old system refuses to fit properly into your new user interfaces or business rules despite the transportation of the old data. For a successful project, the need of a data migration and its requirements must to be identified early beginning of analysis phase and further actions should be reflected to project plan accordingly. But how? Data migration strategies are a whole different detailed topic and they will not be mentioned here but capturing the essentials of data nature is a life-saver activity which is the targeted idea of this work. 1. Will you need a data migration? Identify it during elicitation phase if possible. If not, analysis phase is also ok but be careful and just identify the need as earlier as possible. Ask data related simple questions. Do your requirements mention from the systems need to be shut down? If yes, does this system keeps any data? Is your project a replacement project for an old system? If yes, does this system keeps any data? Do your requirements mention from entities that are already used in your company’s systems? In order to use that data do your new system’s data model needs to keep them as well. Watch out, it may mean also a nasty synchronization! If one of answers is yes, you will need a potential data migration. Just continue to get more details. 2. How to capture requirements and define business rules? If you determine that you need a data migration, be careful and specify at least following details in your analysis.   2.1 Identify if your company have multiple data sources for that entities. If yes, determine the master and the fate of other systems’ data. You will see how many systems you are dealing with. It is important to know how and where data is stored, backed up, and if it is archived. 2.2 Data profiling: Data profiling is a “must have” activity to understand what are specs of the material you will be working on. Conduct profiling activities and classify the data, such as data with missing unique ID’s or missing first name and last name or false data such as numeric values as first name and other useful information like length, type, candidate for primary key, etc. Results of the profiling will guide you to design user interfaces and capture business rules. 2.3 Do you need data cleansing? According the data profiling, you will see if you need cleansing activities and what will be the final structure of the data you will be working on. Also you will be able to clarify cleansing related activities on the project timeline which will provide a cleaner vision for the project timeline. If your answer is no, definitely check the section 2.6. 2.4 Data structures must be well understood if your project requires design of user interfaces or data forms. Consider data structures while determining dynamic user interfaces or form context. For example, old system may store the phone number and its extension in one field by separating data by “–“. This means two numbers are stored in one field and you should consider such constraints while you are designing a new interface with multiple fields on section 2.8 or determine ways to separate phone number and its extension effectively while moving the data as mentioned on section 2.7. 2.5 Fate of the historical data:  Take into account if historical data will be migrated or not. It may affect your user interfaces or business processes. 2.6 Fate of the missing or dirty data: After profiling, most probably you will see that some of your data is not clean or adequate to use in further actions. For example, you are working on sensible customer data and national identity number is mandatory but some records do not have identity numbers. It will cause you problems to pinpoint the customer or you will face further problems if this information is mandatory to display customer on the screen.  Even worse, if you have validations based on the identity number such as debt control or billing, the system will not be able to conduct such validations. Always check whether data ownership belongs to a specific business unit. If yes, let them decide to the fate of data. Decide whether the data is just enough to use or will it cause problems to conduct business processes. Will you migrate such data? If yes, sections 2.8 and 2.10 will be highly important for you. Is it possible to clean or enhance problematic data somehow? If yes, how? Determine the way and related requirements. If you decide not to move such data, always consult with your business unit for possible further actions. They may need to find the customer and inform him/her legally according his/her account status or they may need another manual/automation processes.  2.7 Data mapping is basically the activity of creating a map of the existing data model by matching each entity&field with the future data model. Each entity should be mapped correctly and in details to be able to move data successfully. The map is an essential item of data migration strategy which is a whole another topic and not be mentioned here in details. Based on the mapping, you can see the gap between your legacies and your future and you can use the information on section 2.8 2.8 Screen validations and rules: Results of sections 2.2-2.7 will give you clear information about user interface validations and potential need of new business processes. 2.8.1 Screen validations? Define entity specs such as type and length based on the profiling results, the information will guide you to design potential data forms. Define the rules for the gap. If entities are not matching neatly, define UI standards and validation rules accordingly. Such as, will be these entities optional or if two different data are kept in one field, will you continue to collect and display them together? 2.8.2 New processes is needed? If you decided to transport problematic data; You may need to create new processes to correct such data. For example if the identity number is mandatory and your customer update process originally does not allow to update the number, in order to enable the correction of the customer information, you may need the define rules such as displaying identity number field editable. You may create new processes to alert the system or trigger different actions. 2.9 Define security & security measures such as encryption. If data needs to be migrated encrypted, general rules shall be set during analysis phase. 2.10 Define migration acceptance criteria such as data quality, migration duration etc. if it will cause termination on your services 2.11 Define the fate of the legacy data: Will you continue to keep the data on the legacy systems? If yes, determine whether a synchronization is needed with the new system or not? How long the data should be kept on legacy system? What are maintenance rules?   3.    What is next? Of course, plan the future! All answers will guide you for further activities which need to be added to the project plan in details. Identifying these steps at the beginning will prevent you from future unexpected surprises and definitely will help to close the project on time. 3.1 Rehearsals A clean migration needs rehearsals where you can have a look at your situation. 3.2 Testing scenarios Requirements need to be tested and since migration activity creates its own requirements, testing scenarios should cover these requirements as well. Author: Aylin Şen, Senior Business Analyst aylinsen Thu, 28 May 2015 16:49:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3287 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/3155/The-Fuzzy-Line-between-Requirements-and-Design.aspx#Comments 4 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=3155 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3155&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/3155/The-Fuzzy-Line-between-Requirements-and-Design.aspx People sometimes say that requirements are about “what” and design is about “how.” There are two problems with this simplistic demarcation.  This makes it sound as though there’s a sharp boundary between requirements and design. There’s not. In reality, the distinction between requirements and design is a fuzzy gray area, not a crisp black line. I prefer to say that requirements should emphasize “what” and design should emphasize “how.”  Transform VA Mon, 13 Apr 2015 10:47:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3155 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/1252/Complete-Business-Systems-Analysis-Model-UML-Example.aspx#Comments 5 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=1252 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=1252&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/1252/Complete-Business-Systems-Analysis-Model-UML-Example.aspx This is a complete example of a Business/Systems Analysis Model using UML and including: Use Cases, Activity Diagrams, Context Diagram, and more. baldrick Thu, 21 Aug 2014 13:01:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:1252 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/2828/Does-Anybody-Really-Know-What-Time-It-Is.aspx#Comments 2 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=2828 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=2828&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/2828/Does-Anybody-Really-Know-What-Time-It-Is.aspx A few words to set up the story - my daughter is going to have a cyst removed from her left wrist. It's not a complicated procedure but she will be going in outpatient surgery on Dec 20 of this year. Now here's the business analysis part of the story. Transform VA Wed, 08 Jan 2014 07:01:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:2828 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/2753/Are-You-BA-or-BOT.aspx#Comments 11 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=2753 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=2753&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/2753/Are-You-BA-or-BOT.aspx Do you know? If not, should you? I’m using BA as an abbreviation for Business Analyst (really, though, it’s one who performs business analysis regardless of the title) and BOT for “Business Order Taker” (also an abbreviated term for ROBOT). They are different in the way they approach business analysis. Transform VA Mon, 14 Oct 2013 00:39:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:2753 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/2687/Enhancing-the-A-in-Business-Analysis.aspx#Comments 2 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=2687 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=2687&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/2687/Enhancing-the-A-in-Business-Analysis.aspx ...Why, even with the word Analyst in our title, is the role of BA more associated with requirements rather than analytics? My hypothesis is pretty simple:  If Business Analysts are not required to produce specific analysis related artifacts, then both analytical competencies and requirements efficacy will be diminished. afalcon38 Sun, 28 Jul 2013 13:28:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:2687 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/2347/The-BAs-Journey--From-a-Current-to-a-Future-State.aspx#Comments 3 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=2347 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=2347&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/2347/The-BAs-Journey--From-a-Current-to-a-Future-State.aspx Many words have been written about the process of business analysis and how it can be performed on different types of projects. There are a multitude of tools and techniques which can be used plus methodologies and frameworks to suit a wide variety of circumstances. This makes it all too easy to get absorbed in the day-to-day detail and forget about the real purpose of business analysis – to fix a problem or provide the organisation with a new capability. pddean Mon, 24 Sep 2012 08:07:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:2347 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/2341/An-Overview-of-Root-Cause-Analysis.aspx#Comments 3 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=2341 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=2341&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/2341/An-Overview-of-Root-Cause-Analysis.aspx Quite simply, root cause analysis is a technique designed to unearth the real, often unknown reason why a business problem is happening, and then to propose a viable solution to fix it. BABOK explains that root cause analysis “can help identify the underlying cause of failures or difficulties in accomplishing business analysis work”[1] [emphasis added] and further clarifies that it is “used to ensure that the underlying reason for a defect is identified, rather than simply correcting the output (which may be a symptom of a deeper underlying problem).” Transform VA Thu, 06 Sep 2012 09:29:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:2341 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/2247/The-21st-Century-BA-How-proficient-do-Business-Analysts-need-to-be.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=2247 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=2247&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/2247/The-21st-Century-BA-How-proficient-do-Business-Analysts-need-to-be.aspx As businesses acknowledge the value of business analysis – the result of the absolute necessity to drive innovation through projects – they are struggling to figure out three things: (1) What are the characteristics of their current BA workforce, and how capable does their BA team need to be?  (2) What is needed to build a mature BA Practice?  (3) How are we going to get there? Transform VA Mon, 25 Jun 2012 06:55:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:2247