This extract from IRM’s training material looks at how a structured approach to defining and analysing problems can be used as the basis for designing better solutions. Part 1 of this paper looks at problem definition. Part 2 introduces the reader to analytical techniques for determining the root cause of a problem. Read the full paper here: Problem Analysis Techniques (PDF Download)
With plenty of talk in the industry about the growing importance of the business analyst, it’s worth taking a step back and understanding exactly what the analyst does. Most employers hire a BA to do three things: Engage with clients, stakeholders, project sponsors Analyse problems and create solutions Document solutions as a specification Let’s have a look at what’s involved in each step and what business analyst skills are required… 1. Engage with Clients Before a client bares their soul…
Continue ReadingFor most businesses and organisations, if IT stops, the business stops. Whenever a company turns on a new production line, opens a new retail store, launches a new product or provides a new service, there is invariably a new or modified IT system behind it. Going live is the culmination of time, effort, resources and finance. A problem-free IT system is the “acid test” of significant, often crucial investment. Whilst the technical testing of IT systems is a highly professional…
Continue ReadingLooking at what business objectives you are trying to satisfy before leaping into the technology enables you to use the technology wisely, manage scope and cut costs, producing systems which work for your clients. It’s easy to concentrate on the technical features of any project and lose sight of the reason for its existence. Every project exists to solve a problem. Either what you have doesn’t work well enough and needs improving, or you need to invent something totally new….
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