Business Analysis Live!

By International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA)Business Non-Profit

Business Analysis Live! episodes

November 26, 2024Why Business Process Models Matter
In this episode of Business Analysis Live!, host, Susan Moore, talks with Dan Funk and Alex Herron from Sartography, a business process automation company, about business process models and why they matter to the work of business analysis. Hosted by Susan Moore, Community Engagement Manager at the International Institute of Business Analysis, this episode unpacks the key role of process models in driving project success and improving communication across teams.
We begin by addressing a common question: “Why do we need process models?” Many organizations struggle to recognize the value of process modeling, often viewing it as complicated or unnecessary. Through the insights and stories from Dan and Alex, we address these misconceptions and demonstrate how process models create a shared understanding among team members and stakeholders.
We also talk about introducing process modeling into your work, particularly where you may have some resistance to using them. With plenty of real-world examples, we highlight how business process models can drive better communication, improve decision-making, enhance collaboration, and contribute to more successful project outcomes.
Episode Highlights:
• Why business process models are essential for clarity and alignment.
• Overcoming resistance to modeling within teams and organizations.
• Real-world examples of how process models enhance collaboration and decision-making.
• Tips for introducing process models effectively and building stakeholder trust.
• The tangible impact of process modeling on project outcomes, including risk mitigation and faster delivery.
Resources
Connect with Alex on LinkedIn

Connect with Dan on LinkedIn

Business Analysis Live is hosted by Susan Moore, Community Engagement Manager with the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA). We talk with business analysis professionals about business analysis topics and answer questions from our live audience.

If you enjoyed the episode, don’t forget to hit that Like button, subscribe to the channel, and share it with your friends. Your support helps us keep bringing you great content!
The International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA) is a non-profit professional association serving the field of business analysis. As the global thought leader and voice of the business analysis community, IIBA actively supports the recognition of the profession, and works to maintain global standards for the ongoing development of the practice and certifications.
Learn more at ⁠⁠https://www.iiba.org/
#businessanalysis #businessprocess #processmodeling
46 min
November 16, 2024 What Is A Functional Consultant?
In this episode of Business Analysis Live!, host, Susan Moore talks with functional consultant and guest, AJ Hawley, about the role and work of functional consultants and how it relates to business analysis.
Functional consultants, or functional analysts, have a mix of business analysis skills and technical expertise, allowing them to be a full service provider of solutions for their tech stack.
We discuss:
• The Role of Functional Consultants: We discuss what a functional consultant does, including how their skills and responsibilities may overlap with or differ from those of business analysts.
• Skill Sets and Competencies: We identify specific skills that make functional consultants effective in their roles, such as their ability to not only elicit requirements, technical expertise and domain knowledge.
• Relationship with Business Analysis: We talk about how functional consultants often come from business analysis backgrounds and how this helps them to be better at delivering their outcomes!
• Real-World Applications: We talk about what functional consultants do daily.
Resources:
• Connect with AJ on LinkedIn
• Listen to the Analysts After Dark podcast
Business Analysis Live is hosted by Susan Moore, Community Engagement Manager with the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA). We talk with business analysis professionals about business analysis topics and answer questions from our live audience. If you enjoyed the episode, don’t forget to hit that Like button, subscribe to the channel, and share it with your friends. Your support helps us keep bringing you great content!
The International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA) is a non-profit professional association serving the field of business analysis. As the global thought leader and voice of the business analysis community, IIBA actively supports the recognition of the profession, and works to maintain global standards for the ongoing development of the practice and certifications.
Learn more at ⁠⁠https://www.iiba.org/
#BusinessAnalysis #FunctionalConsulting #ProblemSolving

47 min
October 29, 2024How Certification Helps Agile Business Analysis Professionals
In this episode of Business Analysis Live!, Susan Moore, the Community Engagement Manager at the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA), is joined by guest co-host Blake Heggestad, IIBA's Director of Programs and Partnerships, and guest LN Mishra, founder of Adaptive US, to discuss how certifications can empower business analysts in their careers.
The conversation begins with an overview of why agile certifications have become essential for business analysts, especially as more organizations embrace agile practices. LN shares the advantages of becoming certified in agile business analysis, emphasizing the development of role-specific skills, improved adaptability, and strengthened collaboration within agile teams.
They then discuss two key agile certifications offered by IIBA. First, they discuss the Agile Analysis Certification (IIBA-AAC), a credential specifically designed for business analysts working in agile roles. The IIBA-AAC combines agile principles with practical business analysis techniques, preparing professionals for real-world project needs. Next, they cover the Certificate in Product Ownership Analysis (CPOA), another certification aligned with agile practices. The CPOA focuses on the product ownership role within agile frameworks, helping business analysts develop the skills needed to connect business goals with development teams and effectively lead product-focused initiatives.
This episode provides an in-depth look at the agile certification process, offering preparation tips, recommended resources, and insights into how these certifications have positively impacted the careers of business analysts.
RESOURCES:
More information on Agile Analysis Certification (IIBA-AAC)

More information on Certificate in Product Ownership Analysis (CPOA)

Learn about Adaptive US

Connect with LN Mishra on LinkedIn

Connect with Blake Heggestad on LinkedIn

Business Analysis Live is hosted by Susan Moore, Community Engagement Manager at IIBA We talk with business analysis professionals about business analysis topics and answer questions from our live audience. If you enjoyed the episode, don’t forget to hit that Like button, subscribe to the channel, and share it with your friends. Your support helps us keep bringing you great content!
The International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA) is a non-profit professional association serving the field of business analysis. As the global thought leader and voice of the business analysis community, IIBA actively supports the recognition of the profession, and works to maintain global standards for the ongoing development of the practice and certifications.
Learn more at ⁠https://www.iiba.org/
#agile #certificiation #businessanalysis #productownership
41 min
October 15, 2024Getting Started in Business Analysis
In this episode of Business Analysis Live, Susan Moore, Community Engagement Manager at the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA), is joined by guest co-host Andy Grazebrook, IIBA Partner Manager for Europe, to explore how to get started in business analysis. They talk with Stuart Ecuyer, who leads a program within his organization that takes an innovative approach to helping aspiring business analysts enter the profession. The discussion explores how the program is set up, offering participants a mix of learning opportunities and hands-on experience within the organization. Junior business analysts not only learn business analysis but also immediately apply their knowledge to real-world projects, making the learning experience highly practical and impactful.
We meet 2 new business analysts from the first cohort of the program, Leah Charlotte Facey and Marie Ete, who share their journeys, what they've learned, and how they are applying those lessons in their roles. Susan and Andy explore the ways they've entered the business analysis field—whether through formal education or transitioning from another role. They also discuss the importance of the soft skills (essential skills!) that are transferrable from their previous education and which are critical for those just starting out. They also touch on the key role mentorship and community support play in shaping early career growth.
Packed with personal stories, practical advice, and encouragement for aspiring business analysts, this episode offers valuable insights not only for beginners but also for business leaders looking to develop similar training programs in their organizations. Stuart’s program serves as a model for how structured learning combined with real-world application can help organizations grow internal talent while delivering tangible results. Whether you're just beginning your business analysis career or looking to develop talent within your organization, this episode offers plenty of takeaways and inspiration.

RESOURCES:
Connect with Andy Grazebrook on LinkedIn

Connect with Stuart Ecuyer on LinkedIn

Business Analysis Live is hosted by Susan Moore, Community Engagement Manager at IIBA
We talk with business analysis professionals about business analysis topics and answer questions from our live audience. If you enjoyed the episode, don’t forget to hit that Like button, subscribe to the channel, and share it with your friends. Your support helps us keep bringing you great content!
The International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA) is a non-profit professional association serving the field of business analysis. As the global thought leader and voice of the business analysis community, IIBA actively supports the recognition of the profession, and works to maintain global standards for the ongoing development of the practice and certifications.
Learn more at https://www.iiba.org/
#businessanalysis #careerdevelopment #professionaldevelopment
52 min
October 01, 2024Self-Reflection for Cybersecurity and Business Analysis
In this episode of Business Analysis Live!, host,
Susan Moore, is joined by Bindu Channaveerappa, business analysis practitioner, speaker and author of the new book, Cybersecurity and Business Analysis, to discuss the connection between cybersecurity and business. The episode begins by addressing common misconceptions about cybersecurity, such as the idea that it is strictly a technical domain, and introduces a broader perspective that involves business processes, human factors, and proactive risk management.
Bindu explains how traditional cybersecurity approaches,
which often focus on technical solutions like firewalls and anti-virus systems, are incomplete without incorporating business analysis. She emphasizes the concept of "shifting left," a strategy that encourages business analysis professionals to consider security from the earliest stages of a project. This proactive approach helps prevent costly issues later in the project lifecycle, ensuring security is integrated as a core component rather than a last-minute addition.
The conversation then explores into Bindu’s personal journey of discovering how cybersecurity and business analysis intersect, including how preparing for IIBA’s Certificate in Cybersecurity Analysis (CCA) made her an advocate for greater awareness among business analysis professionals. She shares how her experiences inspired her to write a book that provides practical strategies for integrating cybersecurity into everyday business analysis activities.
Bindu highlights how self-reflection is a core competency
for business analysis professionals in understanding biases, evaluating decisions, and analyzing risk more effectively. By applying reflective practices, business analysis professionals can become better equipped to identify vulnerabilities, consider ethical implications, and make more informed decisions when it comes to cybersecurity.
RESOURCES
Connect with Bindu on LinkedIn

Purchase her book and find more resources on cybersecurity and business analysis
Learn more about IIBA’s Certificate in Cybersecurity Analysis (CCA)
Business Analysis Live is hosted by Susan Moore,
Community Engagement Manager at IIBA
We talk with business analysis professionals about business analysis topics and answer questions from our live audience. If you enjoyed the episode, don’t
forget to hit that Like button, subscribe to the channel, and share it with your friends. Your support helps us keep bringing you great content!
The International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA) is a
non-profit professional association serving the field of business analysis. As the global thought leader and voice of the business analysis community, IIBA actively supports the recognition of the profession, and works to maintain
global standards for the ongoing development of the practice and certifications.
Learn more at https://www.iiba.org/

#cybersecurity #businessanalysis #selfreflection
47 min
September 17, 2024How to Elicit Requirements
Host, Susan Moore, welcomes the hosts of The JDE Connection podcast, Chandra Wobschall and Paul Houtkooper, to this first-ever cross over episode of Business Analysis live! You'll learn more about Chandra and Paul and their experiences with business analysis around the financial system they support, JD Edwards, an enterprise resource planning (ERP) solution owned by Oracle.

In this episode we talk about gathering requirements and learn a bit about why IIBA uses the term "eliciting" when referring to these activities. Chandra and Paul share their experiences and techniques, like using questions to uncover true goals and maintaining trust by creating safe spaces for collaboration.

We also talk about the role of emotional intelligence, active listening, and problem-solving in handling tough stakeholders and navigating critical business systems. This insightful exchange will leave you equipped with practical strategies and techniques for turning implicit needs into explicit requirements, managing stakeholder emotions, and fostering productive relationships in complex environments. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from seasoned professionals who know how to ask the right questions and unlock deeper understanding with your stakeholders!

Resources:
Connect with Chandra on LinkedIn

Connect with Paul on LinkedIn

Learn more about The JDE Connection podcast and where you can find it

Business Analysis Live is hosted by Susan Moore, Community Engagement Manager at IIBA
We talk with business analysis professionals about business analysis topics and answer questions from our live audience. If you enjoyed the episode, don’t forget to hit that Like button, subscribe to the channel, and share it with your friends. Your support helps us keep bringing you great content!

The International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA) is a non-profit professional association serving the field of business analysis. As the global thought leader and voice of the business analysis community, IIBA actively supports the recognition of the profession, and works to maintain global standards for the ongoing development of the practice and certifications.

Learn more at https://www.iiba.org/

#businessanalysis #requirements #gatheringrequirements #elicitation

00:06 Introduction and Guests
01:39 Guest Backgrounds
03:38 Requirement Elicitation Challenges and JD Edwards
05:39 Educating Analysts and Techniques
24:47 Listening and Problem Solving
28:47 Awkward Conversations With Stakeholders
33:00 Learning and Dealing with Tough Stakeholders
45:57 Saying No and Documentation
55:44 Handling Communication and Conflict
59:22 Community Involvement and Closing
1 hr 3 min
September 03, 2024 Driving Behaviors for Business Success
Susan Moore and, guest co-host, Fabricio Laguna (The Brazilian BA) introduce the concept of driving behaviors for business success, using the upcoming World Management Agility Forum conference as a backdrop. They are joined by Hugo Lourenco, founder of World Management Agility Forum, and Gonçalo Pereira, Human Factors Researchers at The Agile Thinkers to explore the critical role of human factors in business environments.

The discussion centers on the importance of key behaviors such as communication, cooperation, decision-making, and leadership in fostering business success. Hugo and Gonçalo emphasize the need for a behavioral management system that enhances agility, enabling businesses to adapt and thrive in rapidly changing environments. The conversation also touches on the relationship between IIBA and the conference, highlighting the alignment between business analysis and the human competencies outlined in the Business Analysis Body of Knowledge (BABOK Guide).

Listeners will gain insights into how the World Management Agility Forum evolved from a small gathering into a global event that attracts middle and senior management professionals seeking to connect with industry leaders and gain practical knowledge. Hugo shares the origins of the forum and its unique focus on human factors, which has led to significant improvements in business outcomes for participating companies.

The episode sheds light on how behaviors are the bridge between practices and context, making a strong case for prioritizing human factors in business training and strategy.

Resources:
Connect with Hugo on LinkedIn
Connect with Goncalo on LinkedIn
Connect with Fabricio Laguna, The Brazilian BA
Learn more about World Management Agility Forum and their upcoming conference in Lisbon, Portugal

Business Analysis Live is hosted by ⁠Susan Moore⁠, Community Engagement Manager at IIBA

We talk with business analysis professionals about business analysis topics and answer questions from our live audience. If you enjoyed the episode, don’t forget to hit that Like button, subscribe to the channel, and share it with your friends. Your support helps us keep bringing you great content!

The International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA) is a non-profit professional association serving the field of business analysis. As the global thought leader and voice of the business analysis community, IIBA actively supports the recognition of the profession, and works to maintain global standards for the ongoing development of the practice and certifications.

Learn more at ⁠https://www.iiba.org/⁠

#businessanalysis #humanfactors #agility
1 hr 1 min
August 20, 2024 The Power of Observation
Host Susan Moore teams up with Steve Jones, a business analysis professional, IIBA Hartford chapter leader, and co-host of Analysts After Dark. They explore the often underrated but incredibly useful technique of observation and how it can bring deeper context to your analysis work. And it’s not just about seeing—observation involves all your senses. When done right and validated, it can sharpen communication, boost agility, build empathy, and strengthen relationships.

From crafting models and solving problems to acing discovery sessions, they cover the many ways observation can elevate your analysis game. Plus, they talk about upcoming IIBA Hartford chapter events and how you can connect with business analysis professionals worldwide!

Resources:
-Connect with Steve on LinkedIn
-Follow Analysts After Dark on LinkedIn
-Find an IIBA Chapter Event on our calendar

Business Analysis Live is hosted by Susan Moore, Community Engagement Manager at IIBA

We talk with business analysis professionals about business analysis topics and answer questions from our live audience. If you enjoyed the episode, don’t forget to hit that Like button, subscribe to the channel, and share it with your friends. Your support helps us keep bringing you great content!

The International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA) is a non-profit professional association serving the field of business analysis. As the global thought leader and voice of the business analysis community, IIBA actively supports the recognition of the profession, and works to maintain global standards for the ongoing development of the practice and certifications.

Learn more at https://www.iiba.org/

#Observation #BusinessAnalysis #Communication
42 min
August 06, 2024 The 3 I's of Business Analysis
In this episode, hosts Susan Moore and Scott Bennett talk with the organizers and speakers from the 2024 IIBA Soft Ed Festival of Business Analysis. The conference organizers, Briana Ertanin and Luigi Bini, along with the planning team, share how they used the 3 I's—Innovate, Inspire, and Ignite—to set the vision for the event.

Then, we chat with three of the many speakers, Jen Battan, Glenn Brule, and Lauren Ryder, who share their perspectives on the role of business analysis in various contexts. As always, it's a lively conversation with plenty of twists and turns!

We also take a moment to thank Scott for his contributions to our podcast as he transitions from IIBA to becoming a full-time YouTuber.

Resources:
Learn more about the 2024 IIBA Soft Ed Festival of Business Analysis
Connect with Briana https://www.linkedin.com/in/briana-ertanin/
Connect with Luigi https://www.linkedin.com/in/luigibini/
Connect with Jen https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-battan-csm-cspo-cbap-a452003/
Connect with Lauren https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-ryder1/
Find Scott's YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@FixingFurniture

Do you have questions about this topic or have an idea for a different topic? Ask us a question at ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠ or leave us a ⁠⁠⁠voice message⁠⁠⁠ on our podcast homepage.

Business Analysis Live is hosted by:
- Susan Moore, Community Engagement Manager at IIBA
- Scott Bennett, Manager, Business Analysis at IIBA

International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA) is a non-profit professional association serving the field of business analysis. As the global thought leader and voice of the business analysis community, IIBA actively supports the recognition of the profession, and works to maintain global standards for the ongoing development of the practice and certifications.
#businessanalysis #leadership #businessanalyst
45 min
July 23, 2024 Becoming a Business Architect
In this episode of Business Analysis Live!, Scott and Susan talk with business architect, Breanne Casteel. They talk about business architecture, highlighting its critical role in connecting strategic vision with operational execution. Breanne shares the skills required for a business architect, her transition from business analysis, and the process of building effective business architecture. They go into the important role of business architect as a trusted advisor, focusing on the importance of communication, stakeholder engagement, and simplifying complex ideas. Additionally, they offer guidance for those interested in pursuing a career in business architecture.

Connect with Breanne Casteel on LinkedIn

Do you have questions about this topic or have an idea for a different topic? Ask us a question at ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠ or leave us a ⁠⁠⁠voice message⁠⁠⁠ on our podcast homepage.

Business Analysis Live is hosted by:
- Susan Moore, Community Engagement Manager at IIBA
- Scott Bennett, Manager, Business Analysis at IIBA

International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA) is a non-profit professional association serving the field of business analysis. As the global thought leader and voice of the business analysis community, IIBA actively supports the recognition of the profession, and works to maintain global standards for the ongoing development of the practice and certifications.

#businessarchitecture #businessanalysis #trustedadvisor
42 min

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Business analysis is one of the top trending skills today. From problem solvers to change agents to advocates, business analysis professionals perform many roles in organizations and governments all…