Trends In Business Analysis – My Perspective | Tips & Guidance For 2024

Business analysts tended to have come from either a business background or an IT background. Those with a business background tended to be capable in their particular area of business expertise but weaker in the modelling and, in particular, IT-specific modelling skills. The reverse would be true of a business analyst with an IT background.

There are many flavours of business analysts today which include the following:

Journeyman Business Analyst

Broad experience of many different industry sectors with good experience of a range of business analysis techniques. Tends to be freelance or generalist consultant where this sort of experience arises. Will engage on new jobs and will expect to learn the business area quickly and will be proactive in achieving a productive level of competence quickly.

Business Analyst Domain Expert

Same sector, same company with lots of company-specific business knowledge. Expertise on business analysis techniques will depend on their motivation, exposure to outside influences and company professional development policies.

Industry Sector Specialist Business Analyst

Focussed on an industry sector. Similar to a journeyman business analyst but with focus on a particular industry sector. Will shape professional development to improve knowledge of industry sector over general business analysis skills. This sort of individual may advise on company strategy or drive project requirements borne out of their specialist knowledge.