Business Analyst is a role that is growing in popularity, and many individuals are looking to undergo a career in the area. Like with many career paths, there are many ways to get your foot in the door to become a Business Analyst. A lot of people end up moving from roles within the IT sector or an analyst-related role, but that isn’t the only path available.
If you are wondering what exactly a Business Analyst does and how to become one, then read on for our expert guide.
What Is A Business Analyst?
A Business Analyst, also known as a BA, is responsible for analysing business processes and looking deeply into how they work. Once they have gained a deep understanding of the processes in place, a Business Analyst will identify areas for improvement. They work in many different industries and are most typically in demand in financial services, IT and telecommunications.
A Business Analyst will work closely with a company’s senior management team in order to support changes to the organisations current processes. In some cases, these are changes to the entire business, and in others, these are changes to just certain departments. A Business Analyst often acts as a bridge between the business and technology specialists. Furthermore, as more and more companies are becoming reliant on new technologies, demand for this role is growing.
What Are The Responsibilities Of A Business Analyst?
The responsibilities of a Business Analyst can vary greatly depending on the business and the individual project. Typically, a Business Analyst will be responsible for;
- Having a clear understanding of the existing data requirements of the business
- Running analysis projects specific to the business
- Identifying existing problems and issues within current processes
- Improving reporting quality which in turn will support new initiatives
- Working closely with business stakeholders
- Improving the quality of the technologies used for business processes
- Getting involved with the testing of integrations
- Supporting the business with training and development
- Supporting the business whilst new processes are implemented
- Acting as a bridge between new technologies and the business
- Creating new project plans
- Offering project management services for new processes and plans.
Is A Business Analyst Role Right For Me?
There are many skills that are necessary for becoming a Business Analyst. Obviously, having impeccable analytic skills are very important, but there are many other skills required to thrive in this role. Business Analysts must be objective in order to properly evaluate the processes within a business and be able to combine these evaluations with knowledge and awareness of the industry.
Business Analysts should always be keeping up to date with new developments and technologies that are available to businesses. A lot of a Business Analysts time is spent researching and extrapolating data, which means that the ability to work independently and self-motivate is vital.
Not only that, but a Business Analyst must have excellent problem-solving skills, communication skills, presentation and reporting skills, and the confidence to justify suggestions and plans.
How To Become A Business Analyst?
There are various different ways to become a Business Analyst. A lot of Business Analysts come from a technical background, with many previously working in software testing or development. This is a useful skill to have as a Business Analyst as digital technologies are a vital part of the role. Unlike some professions, it is not a requirement to have specific Business Analyst qualifications, but it is definitely worthwhile.
Having qualifications relevant to the role can help set your application apart from the crowd. Not only that, but a Business Analyst course can help you get a basic understanding of the role and how to successfully do the job.
A lot of employers will be looking for a Business Analyst with prior experience and knowledge. They will look for candidates with a solid understanding of business analysis, and knowledge of appropriate modelling and analysis tools. Skills like SQL and data analysis tools are also desirable, as is previous experience of working closely with stakeholders.
Many employers will look for Business Analysts that have recognised certification from a professional body. Popular professional bodies for Business Analyst qualifications include The Chartered Institute for IT (BCS) or the International Institute of Business Analysis UK (IIBA).
Business Analyst Qualifications At TSG Training
Here at TSG Training, we understand the importance of recognised qualifications, especially for those looking for a role as a Business Analyst. Without solid business analysis, businesses wouldn’t have a point of reference for what is required or when it has been achieved. Alongside software testing, it is one of the most important roles in any business.
This is why we offer a range of Business Analyst courses, available for both online and offline training. With 15 different Business Analysis courses to choose from, we have got something for everyone.
Our
BCS Foundation Certificate In Business Analysis is the perfect introduction to the techniques required for a role as a Business Analyst. This course covers strategy analysis, engineering requirements, investigation techniques and much more. It is designed for anyone already working in a Business Analyst role, or those looking to move into the role in the future.
The course lasts the three days and covers everything needed to pass the exam which is sat on the final day.
Another popular course is our
BCS Data Management Essentials which covers all the industry standards and best practices for data management. During this training course, learners will look in detail at the development of procedures for managing data and what is required for managing a database. It also covers vital information about data quality, enterprises and current data management.
To find out more about our BCS courses or an insight into the role of a Business Analyst, check out our range of free webinars. The
New BCS Programmes Webinar Recording explains the BCS programmes that are on offer at TSG. Guest speaker Ademar Albertin runs through the current portfolio and provides insights into the new BCS courses and whether they would be right for you.
