As the discussion on the information technology perspective continues, let take a look at the common competencies in this perspective.
A business analyst working within the information technology environment may have some IT related skills such as programming, creating a database, solution design and software testing.
Though possessing these skills are not essential for success in the IT environment, I have found that it makes it easier to communicate with the technology team.
In order to effectively communicate the requirements, the business analysts has to have a strong understanding of the details required within a requirements package that would be used to support the technical solution.
The business analyst also needs to understand the technical feasibility within the constraints of an organization’s technical architecture.
These skills will help a business analyst to work with the stakeholders to design a business solution structure that will allow the technical team the flexibility to design an effective technical solution.
Business analysts use influencing, negotiation, facilitation and system thinking skills when working with stakeholders.
Negotiation skills are used when working with business and technical staff to come to mutual decisions on resource allocation.
Systems thinking is an essential competency for business analysts working in an IT environment. It helps the business analyst to see the larger picture such a people, processes, and software which may be impacted, to analyze the risks and possible outcomes of those impacts, the details of the specific need, and potential technical solutions.