Business analysts often have to work in ever changing environments and with numerous stakeholders.
They would have to modify their behavior and approach to increase their effectiveness when working with different stakeholders, organizations, and situations.
Adaptability is the capacity to change techniques, style, methods, and approach.
By showing a readiness to interact with and complete tasks in a manner which is desirable to the stakeholders, the business analysts can boost the quality of service and efficiently help the organization achieve its goals and objectives.
Business analysts sometimes have to change the way they interact with stakeholders, for example how they conduct interviews or the way they facilitate workshops.
Different stakeholders have varying levels of comfort with approaches that are in the business analysis tool kit.
Some stakeholders are more visually inclined and respond better to information that is represented visually in models, diagrams, and pictures. While other stakeholders prefer more verbal and textual descriptions.
The business analyst has to be able to decide which techniques would work and which would not, and change their techniques accordingly.
If the goals and objectives of the organization should change, the business analysts should respond by accepting those changes and adapting to the new directive.
Similarly, if circumstances arise or unanticipated problems occur, business analysts should adapt by changing their plans and identifying options that can be used to deliver the maximum value.
The business analyst adapts when the business or stakeholder needs change, or when the circumstances of the goal or the objective changes.
When the need itself changes, the business analyst adapts by changing the plans and the approach to make sure that value is provided and delivered as part of the solution.
There are some measures of effective adaptability which include the following:
- Having the bravery to act differently from others.
- Adjusting to changing conditions and environments.
- Assessing and considering other people points of view and approaches.
- Displaying a positive attitude in the face of obscurity and change.
- Showing a readiness to learn new methods, procedures, or techniques in order to achieve goals and objectives.
- Altering behavior to perform effectively under changing or unclear conditions.
- Obtaining and applying new information and skills to address new challenges.
- Accepting that changes would have to be made to tasks, roles and project assignments as organizational circumstances change.
- Changing behavior to fit in with diverse individuals and groups in a range of different situations.
- Assess what worked, what did not, and what could be done differently next time.