Many times, the first problem is figuring out what the problem is. “What’s the problem?” is the question we ask, but finding the answer can prove to be challenging. Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) is a way to learn about and appreciate the situations stakeholders find themselves in. Soft Systems Methodology attempts to foster learning and […]
“Creativity is just connecting things.”
Steve Jobs was a genius. Thus, he tended to say genius things. I created this infographic to explain this particular Jobism.
Always Expect Change
Assumptions are not evil. In fact, they are necessary innumerable times daily. We don’t have time to stress test every chair we sit in before we sit in it. We sit down and hope for the best. The problem is not assumptions in and of themselves. The problem is the expectations we build on our assumptions. […]
I’m a Professional Scrum Master!
I recently blogged about how consistency is needed to be a successful blogger. Then I kind of fell off the radar again. Though not an excuse, here is an explanation of why I was absent. I’m now a Professional Scrum Master! At least this shows that I am consistently learning something new.
Define your business processes with flowcharts
I like Visio. In the software development world, it’s a staple. But most business people don’t need (or want) Visio to define business (and personal) processes with a flowchart. There are many online tools that will allow you to create flowcharts for business processes. One tool that is completely free and fairly easy to use […]
Robot overlords are a myth
Without information, people use imagination. I’m not sure if that’s a quote, a saying, or an epiphany that a human was lucky enough to grasp and share with others. In any case, these enlightening words are even more relevant to a business analyst as RPA (Robotic Process Automation) evolves. People often worry that robots will […]
My horror movie defense mechanism
It’s the beginning of October, and that means it is now socially acceptable for grown-ups to let their hair down and have some fun. Around Halloween, some people’s idea of fun is to go see the scary movies that come out around this time of year. But let me tell you, I am the worst […]
Listen to the Hidden Brain podcast
I like to listen to the Hidden Brain podcast. They have interesting content and discussions, many of which help me to understand people and their perspectives better, which, in turn, helps me to be a better business analyst. In the episode that aired on September 16, 2019, two psychologists explain that the more anxious people […]
Some common business assumptions, according to Purdue
Below, you can download a Purdue University Cooperative Extension, Knowledge to Go whitepaper published in May of 2005 (according to the date mark) that names some common business assumptions. Though the whitepaper is almost vintage at this point, the information in it is still quite valid. It’s interesting to note that though this information has […]
Business analyst leadership qualities
In my previous post, I said I would create a matrix showing how [expanded] business analyst competencies and leadership qualities can be considered together in order to understand business analyst leadership qualities. Instead, I created a mind map in WiseMapping, a free online mind mapping tool that can also be easily downloaded. (I didn’t spend […]