In this episode of Business Analysis Simplified, Michael and Emily explore the dynamic technique of Focus Groups using the beloved lemonade stand story. Learn how the kids brought together a diverse group of neighbors to gather feedback on their flavors, pricing, and stand design.

Michael explains the key steps to running a successful focus group, from selecting participants to fostering engaging discussions. Discover how this technique uncovers valuable insights, encourages collaboration, and helps refine ideas.

Whether you’re launching a product or gathering feedback for your next project, this episode will show you how to leverage focus groups to make well-informed decisions.

In this episode of Business Analysis Simplified, Michael and Emily dive into the exciting world of Brainstorming, where creativity meets collaboration. Using the lemonade stand story, they demonstrate how the kids used brainstorming to generate fresh ideas for flavors, decorations, and customer engagement.

Michael explains the step-by-step process of running an effective brainstorming session, from setting ground rules to capturing and refining ideas. You’ll also learn how brainstorming fosters teamwork, encourages innovative thinking, and leads to actionable outcomes in real-world business analysis.

Whether you’re solving a problem or exploring new opportunities, this episode will help you unlock the power of brainstorming for your projects!

In this episode of Business Analysis Simplified, Michael and Emily explore the foundational technique of Document Analysis through the lens of the lemonade stand story. Learn how reviewing existing materials like recipes, budgets, and competitor research helped the kids prepare for their project, uncover gaps, and ask the right questions.

Michael breaks down the step-by-step process of conducting document analysis in real-world business analysis, including tips for preparation, identifying useful sources, and validating findings. Discover why this technique is essential for saving time, ensuring accuracy, and setting the stage for effective elicitation.

Tune in and learn how to use Document Analysis to work smarter, not harder, on your projects!

In this episode of "Business Analysis Simplified," Emily and Michael unravel the importance of the Estimation technique in Planning and Monitoring. Using the engaging example of a treasure hunt, Michael explains how estimation helps predict the time, effort, and resources needed for success.

Learn how time estimation guides decision-making, effort estimation allocates tasks effectively, and resource estimation ensures preparedness. Michael also introduces progressive elaboration, showing how estimates evolve as more information becomes available.

Whether you're planning an adventure or managing a business project, this episode highlights how estimation sets the foundation for realistic goals and effective execution. Tune in for practical insights and relatable storytelling!

In this episode of "Business Analysis Simplified," Michael and Emily dive into the Stakeholder List, Map, or Personas technique, exploring its importance in Business Analysis Planning and Monitoring.

Through the engaging example of a treasure hunt, Michael illustrates how identifying and analyzing stakeholders, mapping their relationships, and developing personas can help projects succeed. Learn how to create a Stakeholder List, design a Stakeholder Map, and build Personas to ensure effective collaboration and alignment with project goals.

Whether you’re hunting for treasure or delivering a business project, this episode shows why stakeholder analysis is a game-changer in planning and monitoring. Tune in for actionable insights and relatable storytelling!

In this episode of "Business Analysis Simplified," Emily and Michael dive into the Workshop technique, focusing on its critical role in Business Analysis Planning and Monitoring. Using the fun and relatable example of a treasure hunt, Michael explains how workshops help define approaches, align stakeholders, and structure collaboration for better outcomes.

Discover how workshops provide clarity, resolve conflicts, and enable effective decision-making, making them an indispensable tool for planning and monitoring activities. Whether you’re solving a mystery or managing a project, this episode will highlight why workshops are the ultimate collaboration tool. Tune in for actionable insights and practical examples!

Solution Evaluation is a critical knowledge area in business analysis focused on assessing how well a solution meets the business needs and objectives it was designed for. This involves measuring solution performance, analyzing data to identify gaps or improvement opportunities, and assessing both internal and external factors that may impact the solution's effectiveness. The goal is to recommend actions that maximize the solution's value, ensuring it delivers the intended benefits and aligns with organizational goals.

In this episode of Business Analysis Simplified, Emily and Michael join the discussion to explore Requirements Analysis & Design Definition, a cornerstone of business analysis. Together, they break down how to define, verify, and validate requirements, explore solution options, and evaluate potential value to recommend the best solutions. Perfect for aspiring business analysts looking to master these essential skills!

Welcome to "Business Analysis Simplified" – the ultimate podcast for demystifying the world of business analysis! Join Emily and Michael, two passionate business analysis professionals, as they simplify complex concepts and share their expertise to help you excel in this dynamic field.

Whether you’re an aspiring Business Analyst, a seasoned pro, or just curious, Emily and Michael bring practical advice, relatable stories, and deep dives into essential topics like the BABOK guide, stakeholder management, and real-world BA challenges.

Get ready to learn, grow, and take your BA career to the next level. Hit subscribe and start your journey today!

Emily, a recent graduate eager to learn about Strategy Analysis, meets her mentor Michael in a coffee shop. Michael explains the complex concept through a relatable story of four school friends who work together to improve their outdated school playground. Their journey mirrors the key steps of Strategy Analysis: analyzing the current state, defining the future state, assessing risks, and defining a change strategy. This helps Emily grasp how these principles apply in real-world business scenarios.