Due to the ever-increasing role of technology in business, the rise of automation, and its impact on all business activities, there is a call for Business Analysts (BA) in every organisation to spearhead the change while being flexible with the changing business environment.
According to the BABOK (Business Analysis Body of Knowledge V3), Business analysis enables change in an enterprise by defining needs and recommending solutions that deliver value to stakeholders. Business analysis enables an enterprise to articulate needs and the rationale for change and design and describe solutions that deliver value.
According to a certified BA, working in the US Higher Education Industry, Esther Oluwabusayo Folorunso, saying automation will undoubtedly change the way BAs work. Repetitive tasks like data entry and report generation might be automated.
However, this doesn’t mean BAs will become obsolete. Instead, their role will shift towards higher-level functions. Business Analysts would need to focus on, identifying opportunities for automation, defining the business rules and logic for automation, ensuring a smooth transition to automated processes for users and focusing on strategic analysis and user experience design.
The key to Business Analyst’s future success is adaptability and a commitment to lifelong learning. BAs must continuously update their skills to stay relevant in a rapidly changing technological landscape. This would include developing expertise in new technologies relevant to their industry, honing their soft skills like communication, collaboration, and critical thinking, embracing a growth mindset and being open to new ways of working.
By embracing technology and focusing on evolving skills, Business Analysts can ensure they remain valuable assets in the digital age. They can become the bridge between the ever-evolving technological landscape and the core business needs of organizations. The technical part of business analysis safely empowers business analysts to be valuable partners in the digital transformation business.
Business Analysis is not simply a “tech” role but undeniably requires a strong tech foundation in today’s world. Understanding technology’s role in business, translating needs into technical requirements, and collaborating effectively with IT professionals empowers BAs to be strategic partners in driving digital transformation.
The future of BA is bright, but it demands adaptability and a commitment to lifelong learning. As technology reshapes the business landscape, BAs who embrace emerging trends, upskill in relevant areas, and focus on strategic analysis and user experience design will remain invaluable assets. They will continue bridging the gap between business and technology, ensuring organisations leverage technology effectively to achieve their strategic goals.
So, it is Business Analysis a technical role? The answer is that it depends. While deep coding expertise isn’t necessarily required, a potent blend of business acumen and tech-savvy is essential for success in this ever-evolving field. If you’re an analytical thinker with a passion for business and a willingness to embrace technology, a career in Business Analysis might be the perfect path for you