Enhancing project success: the critical role of a business analyst

In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, companies are constantly seeking ways to stay competitive, optimise processes, and enhance customer experiences. However, navigating these challenges often requires more than just institution and experience – it demands a deep understanding of the intricate relationships between people, processes, and technology. This is where a Business Analyst (BA) comes into play. But how do companies know when it's the right time to hire a BA? We spoke to Mornay Vivier, Business Analysis Practice Lead – Avec Global, to find out.

Identifying the need for a Business Analyst 
One of the most telling signs that a company might need a BA is when projects repeatedly fail to meet expectations. This issue often arises when the requirements for a project are not clearly defined from the outset. According to Mornay, "Companies frequently find themselves disappointed with the end result, especially when they invest in off-the-shelf software solutions that seem promising but fail to deliver the functionality they truly need." Without a BA to thoroughly assess the company's specific needs and match them with the right solution, these decisions can lead to significant problems down the road. Mornay explains, "A BA's role is to ensure that the company's needs are clearly articulated and that the chosen solution not only meets current requirements but is also scalable and adaptable for future growth."

The risks of proceeding without a BA 
Proceeding without a BA introduces substantial risks, particularly in complex projects. A noticeable disconnect between what was promised and what is delivered is a critical warning sign that a BA is needed. Mornay states that, "This disconnect often occurs in software development projects, where a lack of clear communication and understanding of the requirements can lead to costly mistakes. Even a single error in the requirement specification can snowball into thousands of mistakes in the code, putting the entire project at risk." 

The absence of a BA becomes particularly evident when the stakes are high, such as in the selection of an off-the-shelf solution or the development of custom software. Mornay highlighted that "Without a BA, projects often suffer from scope creep, where unclear requirements cause the project to expand beyond its original boundaries. This not only leads to misaligned expectations and deliverables but also significantly increases costs and timelines."
The value of a Business Analyst 

A BA is far more than just a requirements gatherer; they serve as a critical bridge between the business and technical teams, ensuring that all stakeholders have a shared understanding of the project goals and requirements. Mornay emphasised, "this role involves not only gathering and documenting requirements but also challenging assumptions and pushing back when necessary to keep the project on track. A BA's value lies in their ability to engage deeply with the business, acting more like a consultant than an order-taker. While an order-taker simply records what the customer wants, a BA asks probing questions to uncover the true needs and challenges of the business. This deeper level of engagement can be transformative for a project."

Mornay spoke to the numerous times where a BA has turned around failing projects in his career "In one case, a project on the brink of failure due to poorly defined requirements was saved by deploying a robust methodology that re-evaluated business rules, understood data flows, and aligned all elements with business objectives. This approach not only saved the project but also delivered a solution that exceeded the client's expectations."

When to consider hiring a BA
There are specific scenarios that should prompt a company to consider hiring a BA. When a company is looking to improve efficiency, enhance effectiveness, or boost customer experience, a BA can be invaluable. These goals often require a deep understanding of how different elements of the business interact and where there might be opportunities for improvement. 

Mornay highlighted, "If a company is experiencing bottlenecks in its processes, struggling with low customer satisfaction, or facing high operational costs, a BA can help identify the root causes and develop solutions that address these issues. A BA's ability to analyse the environment, understand the art of the possible, and recommend changes across people, processes, and technology makes them essential for companies aiming to achieve these objectives." 

For companies that are unsure about whether they need a BA, the argument is compelling. A BA provides a holistic view of the business, understanding how all the moving parts interact within a larger system. This system approach allows a BA to identify areas where the business can improve, whether it's through increased revenue, reduced costs, or enhanced customer satisfaction. 

Where do we come in?
The decision to hire a BA should be guided by the specific needs and challenges of the business. If your company is facing challenges with project delivery, struggling to meet customer expectations, or looking to optimise processes, a BA could be the key to unlocking new opportunities and achieving your business goals. The value of a BA extends far beyond mere documentation – they are essential partners in driving business success. Get in touch with the Avec Global team today to discover how our Business Analysts can drive your projects to new heights.