Business Analysis Done Right: Lessons Learned and Pitfalls Avoided

This book presents observations, experiences, and practices that work or don’t work in different areas of business analysis – combining the lessons learned with how to avoid potential pitfalls.

Four areas were identified that constitute the greatest project challenges and the most frequently occurring problems in the work of a business analyst: strategic analysis, business analysis process planning, requirements engineering, and solution implementation. These areas hence build the main chapters of this book. Each of them begins with a brief introduction explaining the essence of the respective area and presenting the most important information. They are further divided into sections describing specific topics, where tips and recommendations are presented. Most sections begin with a guiding thought – a quote provided by an expert or a short hint based on the author’s 20 years of experience. At the end of each chapter, case studies and/or checklists are provided facilitating the planning and implementation of business analysis practice in a project.

This book provides readers with suggestions, ideas, and conclusions regarding selected aspects of business analysis – in particular, discussing challenges and recommendations regarding the application of specific methods, practices in specific usage contexts. It will be most beneficial to professionals who already have a basic understanding of the fundamentals of business analysis and will be able to relate theoretical knowledge to practical examples of project applications. Readers who are just entering the field of business analysis will also benefit by gaining insights how to avoid basic mistakes or risks.