Business Analysis
A collection of tasks and techniques that enable delivery of solutions aligned with business goals and that continually generate value for the organization.
Key Points
- Centers on understanding business needs and translating them into clear, testable requirements.
- Engages stakeholders to elicit, analyze, validate, and prioritize requirements linked to objectives.
- Maintains traceability from business goals to solution components and expected benefits.
- Assesses proposed and delivered solutions to confirm value and recommend improvements.
Example
During an ERP implementation, the business analyst interviews finance and operations leaders, documents a BRD, and builds a requirements traceability matrix. They work with the project manager and technical team to validate that configurations meet prioritized requirements and support targeted benefits such as reduced cycle time and improved reporting accuracy.
PMP Example Question
Which activity best represents business analysis in a predictive project?
- Documenting and managing requirements to ensure the solution aligns with business objectives and delivers ongoing value
- Monitoring team performance and issuing corrective actions
- Performing qualitative risk analysis to prioritize risks
- Approving change requests as part of integrated change control
Correct Answer: A — Business analysis
Explanation: Business analysis focuses on eliciting, analyzing, and managing requirements so the delivered solution aligns with business goals and provides sustained value.