https://modernanalyst.com RSS feeds for Business Analyst Community & Resources | Modern Analyst 60 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/6714/Musical-Chairs-A-Dynamic-Reflection-Activity-for-Software-Teams.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=6714 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=6714&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/6714/Musical-Chairs-A-Dynamic-Reflection-Activity-for-Software-Teams.aspx Musical Chairs Reflection represents an alternative to traditional reflective practices. By incorporating movement, spontaneity, and structured dialogue, this activity disrupts routine interactions and fosters an environment where diverse perspectives and creative solutions can flourish. The activity can increase engagement, enhance collaboration, and provide actionable insights to foster continuous improvement in software teams. This method aligns with agile principles and supports a culture of continuous learning and growth. As teams continue to evolve, embracing innovative reflective practices will remain a key strategy for navigating uncertainty and fostering a growth mindset. adrian Sun, 30 Mar 2025 18:23:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:6714 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/6362/Elevating-Collaboration-Requirements-Management-Processes-A-Convergence-of-AI-and-Tools.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=6362 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=6362&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/6362/Elevating-Collaboration-Requirements-Management-Processes-A-Convergence-of-AI-and-Tools.aspx The integration of AI into requirements management signals a transformative juncture, promising heightened efficiency, insightful perspectives, and streamlined processes. While challenges persist, a methodical approach to AI implementation offers a pathway to reaping these benefits. Organizations poised to embrace AI stand to elevate their requirements management processes, fostering superior project outcomes and innovation-driven success. adrian Sun, 24 Sep 2023 19:12:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:6362 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/6061/Using-Feature-Trees-to-Depict-Scope.aspx#Comments 3 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=6061 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=6061&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/6061/Using-Feature-Trees-to-Depict-Scope.aspx A software feature consists of one or more logically related system capabilities that provide value to a user and are described by a set of functional requirements. Many business analysts use features as a way to describe the scope of a project. However, a simple list doesn’t readily show the size and complexity of various features. Nor does quickly skimming a feature list easily reveal the full scope of a project. A feature tree is a visual analysis model that organizes a set of features in a format that makes them easy to understand. adrian Mon, 09 May 2022 03:25:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:6061 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/5912/Selecting-and-Tailoring-Business-Analysis-Approaches-Techniques.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=5912 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=5912&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/5912/Selecting-and-Tailoring-Business-Analysis-Approaches-Techniques.aspx It is true that a structural element of the conceptual framework of the BABOK knowledge areas is tailoring. The philosophy that a specific sequential approach does not fit in all circumstances is clear across all the knowledge areas and techniques presented. A business analyst has to critically filter and pick up the most useful techniques and approaches given the specific circumstances. Transform VA Sun, 19 Sep 2021 06:57:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:5912 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/5903/Importance-of-Leveraging-Tools-as-a-Business-System-Analyst.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=5903 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=5903&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/5903/Importance-of-Leveraging-Tools-as-a-Business-System-Analyst.aspx This article covers examples of how tools are becoming extremely important in today’s world for Business Systems Analysts; continuous learning and exploration of various tools are becoming indispensable to work efficiently and contribute towards the team success.  As more and more new technologies/tools arrive in the market, from a BSA perspective being able to appropriately understand and use them will not only emphasize the value of the BSA role, but also the force the change in mindset to align more towards the Agile way which is the common forte nowadays. adrian Mon, 16 Aug 2021 03:12:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:5903 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/5651/You-have-to-be-mature-to-be-agile.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=5651 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=5651&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/5651/You-have-to-be-mature-to-be-agile.aspx An agile organization is characterized by having a comprehensive portfolio of optimized business process and business capability maps grouped by their role in value creation for the customers and support of the business strategy.  These maps are linked to all the other disciplines such as finance, governance, resource management, talent management, and customer experience.   Thus, Corporate IP can be securely delivered to the point of need.  adrian Sun, 19 Jul 2020 16:24:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:5651 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/5248/Capability-Based-Planning-with-ArchiMate.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=5248 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=5248&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/5248/Capability-Based-Planning-with-ArchiMate.aspx Capability-based planning is a growing practice in the field of enterprise architecture. Its success is due to the fact that it provides actual value to practitioners and the organizations that employs them. Indeed, capability-based planning helps in a number of ways, from providing a clear understanding of existing capabilities to promoting effective Business-IT alignment. Considering these benefits, we thought it useful to address this practice and bring some clarity to the subject for the benefit of all who might not yet have a good handle on the topic. Transform VA Sun, 28 Apr 2019 23:40:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:5248 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/5091/Stop-wasting-time-Visualize-your-workflow--Continued.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=5091 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=5091&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/5091/Stop-wasting-time-Visualize-your-workflow--Continued.aspx In this article, I am going to focus on the key 3 tools that you can use to help you identify the pain points in your workflow.  One of the key things to identify when working in a visual manner is understanding where your blockers are. It is only when you have identified these blockers, you then able to do something about them. There is no use trying to change something when you don’t have the evidence to baseline the problem. As business analysts, we wouldn’t tell the business where the problems are without conducting a thorough root cause analysis. So, why do we do it at work, why do we think without evidence we know exactly what the problem is and the impact it has on.  BusinessAnalysisHub Sun, 19 Aug 2018 18:40:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:5091 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/5083/Lets-explore-Business-Analysts-Toolbox.aspx#Comments 2 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=5083 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=5083&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/5083/Lets-explore-Business-Analysts-Toolbox.aspx Chaos! Stress! Everyday mess! Isn’t this an everyday situation for a business analyst? If not, either you’ve job satisfaction or you’re not being introduced to the real world of business analysis. A person might possess great skills, however, (s)he might not be able to utilize skills without the right mix of tools and environment. A toolbox enables a person to implement the skills in the most efficient way. Possessing necessary tools is just the one part of it. Another is the knowledge to utilize the right tools at the right time to cater the solution and ensure timely committed delivery. What are these tools? How do we map the usage of tools to the given circumstance? How can we efficiently utilize the tool? Does it depend on the solution or the approach? Nimil Parikh Sun, 08 Jul 2018 12:00:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:5083 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/5070/8-Ways-Data-Preparation-Software-can-Boost-Excel-Productivity.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=5070 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=5070&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/5070/8-Ways-Data-Preparation-Software-can-Boost-Excel-Productivity.aspx The most time-consuming process of doing analysis in Excel is data cleansing which can be extremely slow and laborious. However, it is very important because the cost of a mistake caused by incomplete information, discrepancies and outliers, can cause serious faults in your analysis that could significantly impact business outcomes. With the purpose-built data preparation software, you can eliminate the pain of data cleaning and improve your data quality. This article shares eight key ways you can significantly boost your productivity with Excel using purpose-built data preparation software... sheryljohnson13 Thu, 28 Jun 2018 02:39:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:5070 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/4963/Doctor-BA-and-the-Tools-of-the-Trade.aspx#Comments 1 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=4963 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4963&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/4963/Doctor-BA-and-the-Tools-of-the-Trade.aspx “Well it just so happens that I have a question about tools.” "What tools do you suggest a business analyst use in pursuit of his or her vocation? What tools can be used as best practices for business analysts?” Transform VA Sun, 11 Mar 2018 05:05:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4963 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/3766/iRise-Why-Prototyping-is-Essential-In-the-Post-Information-Age.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=3766 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3766&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/3766/iRise-Why-Prototyping-is-Essential-In-the-Post-Information-Age.aspx iRise gives Business Analysts the tools they need to communicate clearly with both the business and its stakeholders.  They use working previews that can be virtually indistinguishable from the final product.  When business analysts uses iRise to elicit and document requirements: the business analyst becomes a powerful weapon to get to the right answer, ... adrian Sat, 13 May 2017 16:17:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3766 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/3681/Deep-Dive-Models-in-Agile-Series-State-Models.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=3681 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3681&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/3681/Deep-Dive-Models-in-Agile-Series-State-Models.aspx State Models include two RML Data models (State Tables and State Diagrams) that show the transition of an object through various states or statuses, including which transitions are valid and what triggers an object to transition state. A state is a short-form description of a stage in a data object’s life that influences the behavior of the system. These two models are covered together in this paper because they generally show the same information, just in different ways. These models are great for any object which has state about which there might be business rules, like workflow processes! Transform VA Mon, 08 May 2017 01:00:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3681 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/3324/Strategy-Mapping-for-Business-Analysts.aspx#Comments 2 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=3324 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3324&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/3324/Strategy-Mapping-for-Business-Analysts.aspx This article explores strategy mapping as discussed within Business Architecture Guild BIZBOK, and attempts to extend the discussion by defining a set of information and graphical principles that allows strategy to be represented graphically. Mon, 28 Sep 2015 04:59:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3324 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/3066/Facilitated-Workshops--When-Why.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=3066 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3066&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/3066/Facilitated-Workshops--When-Why.aspx The “good old workshop”. As a business analyst practitioner and trainer I often get asked the question “should we use a workshop?” quickly followed by “how do we run it?”. This article addresses the first question (subsequent articles will look at the second). pddean Fri, 05 Sep 2014 04:40:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3066 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/2821/From-Business-Analyst-to-Business-Hero-Selecting-a-BPM-Solution.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=2821 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=2821&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/2821/From-Business-Analyst-to-Business-Hero-Selecting-a-BPM-Solution.aspx The path to choosing a third party business process management (BPM) system is riddled with potential pitfalls. The decision can make or break a business, so it’s worth the time and effort to get it right. Transform VA Mon, 23 Dec 2013 01:21:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:2821 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/2269/Powerful-Business-Modeling-With-No-Magics-Cameo-Business-Modeler.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=2269 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=2269&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/2269/Powerful-Business-Modeling-With-No-Magics-Cameo-Business-Modeler.aspx CBM Analyst is a simple and inexpensive way to implement business modeling. Business analysts may also choose to upgrade their business modeling solution to No Magic’s Cameo Business Modeler Plugin. The No Magic professional services team is ready to assist you in building and deploying a consistent business modeling solution. Transform VA Tue, 26 Jun 2012 11:40:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:2269 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/2267/Introducing-Prototyper-46--Creating-Interactive-True-to-Life-Prototypes-for-Mobile-Apps-and-More.aspx#Comments 3 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=2267 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=2267&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/2267/Introducing-Prototyper-46--Creating-Interactive-True-to-Life-Prototypes-for-Mobile-Apps-and-More.aspx Working on a new application? You never really know how it will go over until it rolls out. No matter how detailed a wireframe may be, no one can completely picture it in action until they experience the real thing—hours of detailed coding and all. With Prototyper 4.6, your wireframe prototypes look, feel, and behave just like your final application, giving stakeholders and potential users the full experience of the application before any coding even begins. Transform VA Thu, 31 May 2012 04:01:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:2267 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/2178/Which-Should-Come-First-Requirements-Management-Tools-or-Processes-Hint-Its-Not-What-You-Expect.aspx#Comments 4 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=2178 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=2178&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/2178/Which-Should-Come-First-Requirements-Management-Tools-or-Processes-Hint-Its-Not-What-You-Expect.aspx I was asked my opinion about whether I’d want project managers to focus on processes first or tools first. Without hesitation, my response was “I don’t really care whether project managers focus on process or tools first,as long as they don’t get in the way of our doing good business analysis!” Transform VA Mon, 19 Mar 2012 14:30:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:2178 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/2037/Introducing-RuleGuide--Business-Decision-and-Rule-Management.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=2037 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=2037&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/2037/Introducing-RuleGuide--Business-Decision-and-Rule-Management.aspx RuleGuide is a tool that accelerates and improves the quality of business decision and rule capture, analysis and management. By providing an enterprise repository for business decisions, rules, and associated metadata, RuleGuide fosters ongoing collaboration and alignment ofthe business and IT teams. speeditonline Thu, 20 Oct 2011 05:08:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:2037 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/1810/Business-Process-Management-Across-the-Extended-Enterprise-Challenges-Examples-and-Benefits-of-Web-Based-Software.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=1810 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=1810&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/1810/Business-Process-Management-Across-the-Extended-Enterprise-Challenges-Examples-and-Benefits-of-Web-Based-Software.aspx There are considerable benefits from extending business process management capabilities outside the boundaries of the company, and clearly measurable value is much easier to quantify when stakeholders are outside the traditional walls of the business. NigelDavies Thu, 07 Jul 2011 06:08:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:1810 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/1710/Improve-Business-IT-Interactions-with-the-Right-BPM-Tool.aspx#Comments 1 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=1710 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=1710&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/1710/Improve-Business-IT-Interactions-with-the-Right-BPM-Tool.aspx As a result of budget constraints and limited resources, many companies, (mine included) look to automating tasks and processes to improve efficiency. And one of the easiest areas to demonstrate immediate improvement is by automating a manual process. While almost any manual process could show results by ‘simply’ being able to move documents and files electronically around the company, there is really a more important underlying requirement. speeditonline Mon, 07 Feb 2011 06:19:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:1710 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/1666/The-Tame-the-Messy-and-the-Wicked.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=1666 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=1666&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/1666/The-Tame-the-Messy-and-the-Wicked.aspx Abraham Maslow once said “If the only tool you have is a hammer, you tend to see every problem as a nail.” This article provides the project manager (PM) / business analyst (BA) a framework for categorizing business problems as a baseline for selecting a solution development life cycle (SDLC). speeditonline Tue, 25 Jan 2011 05:01:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:1666 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/1667/Software-Tools-for-The-Decision-Model-Part-1.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=1667 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=1667&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/1667/Software-Tools-for-The-Decision-Model-Part-1.aspx A software tool for The Decision Model supports the entire life cycle of Decision Management. This includes the authoring, analysis, testing and deployment of entire decision models. Whether managed by the business – as some people consider ideal – or managed by IT or business analysts on behalf of the business – as others consider necessary – business decisions need not only a repository for storing decision models, but a range of functions to manage them effectively. speeditonline Wed, 05 Jan 2011 05:37:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:1667 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/1614/iRise-Requirements-Visualization.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=1614 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=1614&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/1614/iRise-Requirements-Visualization.aspx Thousands of business analysts have turned to software visualization from as a strategy to simplify their jobs and cut through the confusion. With iRise, business analysts are empowered to quickly assemble a high-fidelity working preview of an application before development ever begins. These visualizations look and act just like the final product, creating an accurate visual model for what to build. speeditonline Mon, 15 Nov 2010 05:04:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:1614 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/1604/Vetting-documents-for-quality-the-case-for-automation.aspx#Comments 1 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=1604 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=1604&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/1604/Vetting-documents-for-quality-the-case-for-automation.aspx In many organizations, Centers of Excellence, PMOs (Program/Project Management Office) and PQA (Process & Quality Assurance) teams use a variety of manual techniques to vet documentation that are time consuming and manual; leaving room for unintentional mistakes, missed steps and delays in catching errors with regards to governance and best practices. In the spirit of delivering the project on time and under budget, many times these quality review processes are rushed and reduced to cursory checks. Like ensuring documents exist with the right naming convention, rather than reviewing the internal contents of documents and ensuring the contents are of high quality. speeditonline Sun, 14 Nov 2010 05:01:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:1604 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/1556/How-the-BA-Can-Take-Advantage-of-Free-Online-Diagramming-Tools.aspx#Comments 5 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=1556 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=1556&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/1556/How-the-BA-Can-Take-Advantage-of-Free-Online-Diagramming-Tools.aspx Almost every business analyst uses diagramming software in their arsenal of analysis tools. According to BABOK 2.0, an analyst’s traditional purpose in using diagramming tools is to “support the rapid drawing and documentation of a model, typically by providing a set of templates for a particular notation which are used to develop diagrams based on it.” Diagrams not only make requirements clearer to stakeholders through modeling, they help clarify an analyst’s thinking on a project through the process of their very creation. speeditonline Sun, 07 Nov 2010 10:33:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:1556 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/1153/The-Next-Wave-Valuable-Products-First-Process-Second.aspx#Comments 1 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=1153 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=1153&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/1153/The-Next-Wave-Valuable-Products-First-Process-Second.aspx I'm hearing the word "value" a lot lately. This is partly because the economic downturn has us looking to get the most for our money. But that's not all. More and more managers, business analysts, programmers and testers are talking to me about value. They are concerned that their products provide value for their end users. Many of them express a kind of process or tool fatigue. They are tired of being told that using a particular process or toolset is the key to their success. To them, value is a more important concept. adrian Sun, 06 Dec 2009 05:01:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:1153 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/1160/The-Creative-Business-Analyst--Part-3-Making-Better-Decisions.aspx#Comments 1 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=1160 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=1160&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/1160/The-Creative-Business-Analyst--Part-3-Making-Better-Decisions.aspx In this final paper of the series we look at decision making techniques – how to select the best idea from the many we’ve come up with – and how to justify our recommendation to our client, manager and peers.   pddean Mon, 16 Nov 2009 05:14:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:1160 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/1084/Getting-Your-Requirements-Right-Collaborate-With-Stakeholders-To-Work-Smarter.aspx#Comments 1 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=1084 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=1084&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/1084/Getting-Your-Requirements-Right-Collaborate-With-Stakeholders-To-Work-Smarter.aspx Given the economic downturn, "cheaper, better, faster" seems to be a universal mantra in business. To stay competitive, organizations must continually strive to be more agile and develop higher-quality solutions more quickly-despite obstacles such as geographically distributed teams, limited budgets and resources, quick delivery times, language barriers and government regulations. These challenges require teams to consider new ways of doing business so they can be more responsive to frequent business changes. adrian Thu, 17 Sep 2009 04:02:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:1084 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/1011/Detail-Process-Charts-A-Common-Ground-for-Business-and-Development.aspx#Comments 3 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=1011 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=1011&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/1011/Detail-Process-Charts-A-Common-Ground-for-Business-and-Development.aspx When the first flowcharts were applied to manufacturing processes, they followed the flow of a single part through its manufacture.  They displayed, in sequence, the steps it took to make the part and they made sense.  They were easy to visualize, easy to follow, easy to work with, and they resulted in millions of dollars worth of productivity gain.  This same concept was applied to information process charting in the 1940’s.  However, rather than following a single flow, multi-flow process charts were used.  They showed all of the records in a business process in order to make clear the exchange of information between records.  Once again the effort generated millions of dollars worth of productivity gain.   worksimp Mon, 27 Jul 2009 16:46:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:1011 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/559/Exploring-Requirements-with-a-Wall-of-Wonder.aspx#Comments 1 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=559 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=559&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/559/Exploring-Requirements-with-a-Wall-of-Wonder.aspx In this article, I describe one very effective collaborative technique -- the Wall of Wonder (WoW) -- that helps software teams produce the kind of detailed, sharply defined requirements that effectively guide development. As an "emergent" deliverable, requirements evolve through exploration and examination using representative forms such as low-fidelity models and prototypes. A collaborative approach allows business and IT specialists to explore their requirements through these means, while accommodating the necessary fluidity of the requirements process. adrian Sun, 05 Oct 2008 08:44:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:559 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/570/Integrating-iGrafx-FlowCharter-and-Rational-Requisite-Pro.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=570 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=570&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/570/Integrating-iGrafx-FlowCharter-and-Rational-Requisite-Pro.aspx While working on a Business Architecture effort several years ago, I collaborated on developing a new internal standard for business process and business capability description. From my perspective, a business capability is the required function or desired service that a business unit performs and the business process is the set of methods employed to realize the business capability. Business capabilities and business processes can be described as current or future state. Their description can also be scaled for strategic or tactical objectives. This article will present an approach for documenting and aligning business capabilities, business processes, and functional requirements by integrating two distinct tools that leverage robust repositories and object metadata. adrian Sun, 05 Oct 2008 07:20:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:570 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/574/Security-Tool-Chest-Checklists.aspx#Comments 1 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=574 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=574&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/574/Security-Tool-Chest-Checklists.aspx Every career has a set of skills that one needs to do their job, and a set of tools to carry out the various tasks required to display their skills. Same is the case for the analyst involved in security assessment... I have chosen the all mighty checklist as my tool of choice for this article. cadams5 Sun, 05 Oct 2008 07:00:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:574 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/565/Data-Analysis-for-Business-Analysts-Tools-of-the-Trade.aspx#Comments 1 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=565 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=565&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/565/Data-Analysis-for-Business-Analysts-Tools-of-the-Trade.aspx Every area of practice in IT has a set of specific “tools” that supports the standard work of technology professionals. Data Analysis is the capture of data requirements, development of models that reflect those requirements and creation of design to store the data. You can accomplish this with a pencil, paper, and the right skill-set. But it can be done much more quickly and consistently if the process is automated. There are hundreds of individual software tools and tool-suites that support different facets of data analysis. adrian Sun, 05 Oct 2008 06:00:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:565 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/353/Enterprise-Architect-for-Business-Analysts.aspx#Comments 7 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=353 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=353&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/353/Enterprise-Architect-for-Business-Analysts.aspx As a software architect and developer I’ve used Enterprise Architect (EA) from Sparx Systems (www.sparxsystems.com) for a number of years. In that time I’ve spent considerable time and energy trying to get our business analysts to do the same. While I’ve had some success I must admit it’s been an uphill battle. I suspect this is partly because EA is often seen as a technical person’s tool. And that’s not altogether surprising. Enterprise Architect – the name itself is completely misleading. EA is not only for people with the title ‘Enterprise Architect’. It’s for the entire project team, from BA’s to Testers and even for Clients. User Interface – for developers the user interface of EA is extremely familiar and intuitive. It looks like a lot of the tools they use already. For non-technical users more familiar with tools like Microsoft Office it is somewhat more intimidating. So, if you’re a Business Analyst looking for a tool that can help you do your job more effectively then read on. adrian Tue, 06 May 2008 04:35:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:353 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/242/A-Short-History-of-Systems-Development.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=242 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=242&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/242/A-Short-History-of-Systems-Development.aspx I have been very fortunate to see a lot of this history first hand. I have observed changes not just in terms of systems and computers, but also how the trade press has evolved and the profession in general. It has been an interesting ride. Throughout all of this, there have been some very intelligent people who have impacted the industry, there have also been quite a few charlatans, but there has only been a handful of true geniuses, one of which was Robert W. Beamer who passed away just a couple of years ago. Bob was the father of ASCII code, without which we wouldn't have the computers of today, the Internet, the billions of dollars owned by Bill Gates, or this document. I always find it amusing when I tell a young person in this industry that I worked with punch cards and plastic templates years ago. Its kind of the same dumbfounded look I get from my kids when I tell them we used to watch black and white television with three channels, no remote control, and station signoffs at midnight. It has been my observation that our younger workers do not have a sense of history; this is particularly apparent in the systems world. If they do not have an appreciation of whence we came, I doubt they will have an appreciation of where we should be going. Consequently, I have assembled the following chronology of events in the hopes this will provide some insight as to how the systems industry has evolved to its current state. I'm sure I could turn this into a lengthy dissertation but, instead, I will try to be brief and to the point. Further, the following will have little concern for academic developments but rather how systems have been implemented in practice in the corporate world. timbryce Mon, 04 Feb 2008 15:55:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:242 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/236/Best-Practice-with-Structured-Requirements.aspx#Comments 0 https://modernanalyst.com/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=115&ModuleID=572&ArticleID=236 https://modernanalyst.com:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=236&PortalID=0&TabID=115 https://modernanalyst.com/Resources/Articles/tabid/115/ID/236/Best-Practice-with-Structured-Requirements.aspx Analysts report poor requirements management accounts for as much as 71 percent of software project failures. The main cause is the gap between (a) what the business team wants and how it communicates this, and (b) what IT understands and delivers. No matter how good a project development environment is, if the requirements captured in the first place are inaccurate or incomplete, then the project is destined for failure. The same fate awaits project plans that are structured around passive and unmeasurable module and task definitions rather than measurable, business-defined goals. It sounds obvious, but the current rate of project failure demonstrates that this is plainly a difficult task. The main challenge with a software project is that the end result is, essentially, invisible. It is not like building a house, where design anomalies are often clearly visible. Communication in technical projects can be problematic, both between the customer/user and the business analyst and between the business analyst and the development/QA team. As a result, there is often inaccurate or poor understanding of the project scope amongst stakeholders. Project estimation relies on “gut feel” and there is often an overreliance on having particular technical people involved. Similarly, project progress cannot be measured easily or accurately due to inaccessible or overly technical milestones. This increased risk to the project often results in cost overruns, late delivery or, worst of all, outright failure to deliver the system required. A structured approach to requirements capture and management resolves these problems and is the only way all stakeholders can be confident that all requirements have been understood and incorporated into the project plan. Author: Fergal McGovern, Product Manager, Optimal Trace Compuware Corporation admin Thu, 31 Jan 2008 07:38:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:236