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# Bridging the Gap

We'll Help You Start Your Business Analyst Career

## Sitemaps

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## Posts

- [Unlocking Your Potential as a Business Analyst: Harnessing the Power of Essential Oils](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/essential-oils/) - Discover the keys to boosting your confidence, enhancing mental clarity, and unlocking your full potential as a business analyst. In this video from an exclusive LinkedIn Live session we delve into the transformative world of essential oils with renowned expert Robin Jones. While this is outside of our normal set of topics here at Bridging
- [A Business Analyst's Approach to a System Migration Project](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/system-migration-project/) - Learn how business analysts can lead a system migration project with confidence , from defining scope to mapping data and requirements. Includes free templates.
- [How to Manage a Project Portfolio](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/project-portfolio-management/) - Project Portfolio Management is a term that's used to describe how project managers and business analysts organize, prioritize, and show relationships between multiple active and proposed projects for their organizations. Sound portfolio management enables key business executives to make informed decisions about project priorities and enable a more focused project delivery process. Many organizations are
- [What Questions Do I Ask During Requirements Elicitation?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/what-questions-do-i-ask-during-requirements-elicitation/) - Part of preparing for requirements elicitation is identifying questions. Avoid securing valuable stakeholder time only to be lost about what questions to ask!
- [5 Types of Requirements Documents Business Analysts Create](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/requirements-documentation/) - Discover the requirements documents and specifications typically created by business analysts to document the requirements of a project.
- [What is Data Mapping?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/data-mapping/) - As a business analyst, you need to have the ability to showcase how data seamlessly flows between information systems, ensuring smooth operations, and avoiding the headaches of data inconsistencies and mapping issues. With data mapping, you can take control of your projects from the very beginning, setting the stage for successful implementation. In this video,
- [The Glossary: A Gateway to Clear Requirements and Communication](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/glossary/) - A Glossary is a deliverable that documents terms that are unique to the business or technical domain. A glossary is used to ensure that all stakeholders (business and technical) understand what is meant by the terminology, acronyms, and phrases used inside an organization. While creating a glossary can take a bit of time and attention, doing
- [The Most Critical Business Analysis Skills You Need to Be Successful as a Business Analyst](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/business-analyst-skills-important/) - Discover the most critical business analysis skills for new BA – including core skills, business analysis skills, soft skills, and skills that can be required for specific types of BA jobs.
- [How to Scope a Project: A 5-Part Approach](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/project-scope/) - When starting a new project, establishing clarity about scope is absolutely essential. Scope clarity means defining what's included in the project or the initiative, and just as importantly, what's not included so that everyone involved knows exactly what they're working towards. It's your responsibility to bring this to the table because companies rely on you
- [How to Write a Use Case: Template + Tutorial](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/what-is-a-use-case/) - Use cases are a textual requirements specification that captures the software requirements for how a user will interact with a solution to achieve a goal.
- [How to Analyze a Business Process - with a Process Template](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/how-to-analyze-a-business-process/) - When you are trying to figure out what problem to actually solve before you dive deep into the software requirements, you'll want to analyze the business process. And to do that, you create both a visual and a textual business process model. A Business Process Model is a commonly used business analysis technique that captures how a
- [The Business Analyst Blueprint® Framework](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/the-business-analyst-blueprint-framework/) - To be successful as a business analyst, you need a toolbox and a framework. 🎯 A TOOLBOX of techniques that you can pick and choose from, based on the needs of your project and team. 🎯 A FRAMEWORK that guides you step-by-step what to when. At Bridging the Gap, we provide an organized, streamlined, and
- [How to Learn About a New Business Domain](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/new-business-domain/) - As a business analyst starting a new position, it's important to get an understanding of the business. I share my tips for acquiring a broad perspective of the business domain.
- [How to Build a Business Analyst Career Path](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/building-a-business-analyst-career-path/) - What's the next step in your business analysis career? A few steps in the right direction can lead you to new opportunities. But what steps in what direction?
- [What is a Business Analyst? - The Ultimate Guide to The Business Analyst Role, Responsibilities, Job Description, and Mindset](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/business-analyst-role/) - We consider the formal definition, key responsibilities, multiple variations of business analyst roles and what's at the core of business analysis.
- [AI Prompt Engineering for Business Analysts](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/ai-prompt-engineering/) - If you're a business analyst and you know AI is the next skill you need to master—but you’re not sure how to get real, tangible, and useful results—this post is for you. Maybe you’ve tried AI, but the output felt a little off. Or maybe you haven’t even started because it feels overwhelming and you
- [Business Analysis Process Framework: Step-By-Step Guide](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/business-analysis-process/) - One of the most common challenges I see in the business analysis profession is a struggle to help stakeholders understand the value of the business analysis process framework on any type of project, and, quite honestly, gaining credibility for the role. INSIDE THIS ARTICLE Lack of Awareness of How to Do Business Analysis Step 1
- [How to Draw a Process Map](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/process-map/) - A process map is a visual model that shows how a collection of activities are sequenced together to accomplish work in an organization. One of the great things about process mapping is that they are often intuitively understood by our stakeholders. They are also extremely powerful communication tools because they allow us to get great
- [Top 10 New Business Analysis Videos for 2025](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/business-analysis-videos-2025/) - 2025 was a year of shorter, high-impact videos - all specifically for business analysts of course! My goal was to continue to go for depth, just in shorter increments. I started with a series of tips from my new book - The Value-Driven Business Analyst - and then started answering your questions and addressing challenges I
- [New Book for Business Analysts: How to Deliver More Value](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/value-driven-business-analyst-book/) - Want to boost your impact as a business analyst? Learn a new approach to delivering real value and staying ahead in a changing world with my newest book: The Value-Driven Business Analyst. Celebrating My New Book - The Value-Driven Business Analyst Hi, I'm Laura Brandenburg with Bridging the Gap, and today I just want to
- [How to Use ChatGPT (and OpenAI) to Increase Your Efficiency as a Business Analyst](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/chatgpt-for-business-analysts/) - You’ve likely heard about ChatGPT, the free tool released by OpenAI. Imagine being able to expand your thinking, create draft documentation with ease, and streamline your work as a business analyst. This is all possible with ChatGPT, and despite the industry-wide fear of AI replacing business analysts, I think a better question is "how can
- [What Goes Into a Functional Specification?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/functional-specification/) - If you find yourself in a business analyst role on an IT project, it’s likely that at some point you’ll need to create a functional specification – and these can take many different forms depending on the methodologies in place at your organization. But what is a functional specification? Why do you create a functional
- [{Workshop} Mastering the Business Analysis Plan](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/workshop-mastering-the-business-analysis-plan/) - I’m doing something special on April 23, and I wanted to be sure you heard all about it! I’m hosting an exclusive, bonus interactive workshop for everyone who joins The Business Analyst® training program by Tuesday, April 22, 2025. It’s called: Mastering the Business Analysis Plan Hands-On, Interactive Virtual Workshop Wednesday, April 23, 2025, 1-4
- [What Can I Expect in a Business Analyst Job Interview?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/business-analyst-job-interview/) - Learn what the job interview interview process is like for a BA job, how recruiters get involved, and the types of questions you are most likely to get asked.
- [From First-Time Business Analyst to Leading a High-Performing Team: Salena Giacomini](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/salena-giacomini/) - Today we meet Salena Giacomini, who was recently promoted to Director of Business Analysis and invested in training to elevate her entire team. In this interview, you’ll discover: How Salena discovered the business analyst role and was in the job within 24 hours. How Bridging the Gap resources helped her be successful, and why she
- [The luck of the business analyst](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/the-luck-of-the-business-analyst/) - In the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day, let’s chat about the luck of a business analyst. Because every once in a great, great while, you might actually get lucky as a business analyst. Here’s what that might look like. Your business stakeholders answer your questions in clear and precise requirements language, making writing your good
- [Top 10 Business Analyst Job Interview Questions and Answers](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/top-10-business-analyst-job-interview-questions/) - Are you preparing for a business analyst job interview and wondering what questions you might be asked? In this article, we'll look at the types of questions you are likely to be asked in a business analyst job interview. You may also want to check out this video on how to really sell your business analyst
- [How to Excel as a Lead Business Analyst](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/lead-business-analyst/) - Becoming a Lead Business Analyst is a significant step in your career. It means more authority, more responsibility, and more impact. If you’re curious whether or not you are prepared for a Lead Business Analyst role, this video is for you because I share 5 tips to help you excel as a Lead Business Analyst.
- [How to Expand Your BA Experience Even if You Aren't a Business Analyst](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/how-to-expand-your-ba-experience-even-if-you-arent-a-business-analyst/) - Cultivate the mindset of a business analyst and break out of the cycle of not getting a BA job without the business analysis experience.
- [Epics in Agile - A Template to Scope a New Feature](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/epic-in-agile/) - Agile teams scope epics and break them up into user stories. Some traditional business analysis techniques can be used to align stakeholders around the scope of an epic.
- [The Key Role of Business Analysts in Early Project Planning](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/early-project-planning/) - Have you ever been pulled into a project at the last minute, after the scope has been set, the timeline locked, and critical decisions already made? It’s a scenario many business analysts face, and it can feel like an uphill battle to add value when so much has already been decided. I recently sat down
- [How to Prepare for a Business Analyst Performance Review](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/how-to-prepare-for-a-performance-review/) - Preparing for your BA performance review can help ensure annual review time is a valuable experience that helps you take a forward career step.
- [Gaining Confidence to Thrive as a Cybersecurity BA: Precious](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/precious/) - Today, we meet Precious, a cybersecurity business analyst in the UK. After 2 years of BA experience and transitioning to a new role, Precious found herself a bit overwhelmed and experienced panic at the thought of something new. She spoke with a BA friend, who happened to be another Blueprint® training program participant, and couldn’t
- [The Senior Business Analyst - 6 Areas of Responsibility](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/senior-business-analyst/) - A senior business analyst could involve any number of advanced BA responsibilities. Earning a business analyst promotion starts with defining your new role and accumulating senior-level job experiences.
- [Work Samples That Get You Hired for a Business Analyst Job](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/how-to-provide-work-samples-that-get-you-hired/) - When work samples are requested during or after a business analyst job interview, be sure you control the context and provide samples that get you hired.
- [How to Create a System Context Diagram to Model Data Flows](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/system-context-diagram/) - Looking to master the art of clarifying project scope in a flash? Say hello to the System Context Diagram, your secret solution to project scope! In today’s world, projects are only becoming more and more complex, and even the tiniest tweak can send ripples through numerous systems. A System Context Diagram is an elegant solution
- [65 Business Analysis Techniques](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/65-business-analysis-techniques/) - The business analyst's toolbox is chock full of dozens of business analysis techniques. Here is a list of 65 business analysis techniques that are useful to know about. Not that you would use every technique on every project (though some of these are definitely my tried-and-true, go-to, techniques), but so you have a toolbox of
- [New Project? Here's What to Do First...](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/new-project-heres-what-to-do-first/) - There is one incredibly important thing to do first on ANY project... ⛅ Especially if you are in an ambiguous role like being a "Business Analyst." 💯 Even if you've done this 100 times before. 🆕 Especially if it's your first role. 😭 And even more so if it's your team's first time working with
- [From QA to ServiceNow Business Analyst: Manuel Ninapaitan](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/service-now-business-analyst/) - It's my honor today to introduce you to Manuel Ninapaitan, who transitioned from Quality Assurance into a ServiceNow Business Analyst role after participating in The Business Analyst Blueprint® program. In this interview, you'll discover: How important it was to decide he was a business analyst - which started with updating his job title in his
- [Moving into Agile Technical Leadership Without a Coding Background: David Sullivan](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/moving-into-leadership-david-sullivan/) - It's my honor today to introduce you to David Sullivan, a Senior Business Analyst from Madison, Wisconsin. David jumped in to lead his team of business analysts shortly after participating in The Business Analyst Blueprint® program. What I love about David’s story is how he has jumped in and tackled so many big challenges…from an
- [Building Her BA Skill Set and Paid Contract Work During COVID-19: Becky Goll](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/becky-goll/) - It's my honor today to introduce you to Becky Goll. We recorded this interview when Becky was about halfway through The Business Analyst Blueprint® program. When I heard about what she was doing, I didn't want to wait until she had finished the program to get the full scoop. As you'll see, she'd already leveraged
- [From Administrative Assistant to Business Analyst to Strategic Initiatives in Healthcare: Jami Moore](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/jami-moore/) - Today we meet Jami Moore. Jami participated in the Spring 2020 Session of The Business Analyst Blueprint® program, and has achieved some phenomenal successes in her career as a business analyst. You are going to want to tune in to discover how Jami: Transitioned from Administrative Assistant to Business Analyst by shadowing BAs, volunteering for
- [BA Veteran Increases Her Visibility on LinkedIn and Lands a 20% Salary Increase: Tammy Schlador](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/tammy-schlador/) - It's my honor today to introduce you to Tammy Schlador, a Senior SAP Business Analyst, from Tempe, Arizona, who recently landed a new BA position and received a 20% salary increase. In this interview, you'll discover: How Tammy experienced a light bulb moment around process maps, even though she'd been doing them for over 20
- [How to Take Your Career into Your Own Hands by Examining the Environment Around You: Beverly Sudbury](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/beverly-sudbury/) - Today we meet Beverly Sudbury, a Business Process Analyst from Prince Edward Island, who recently took control of her career and went from a Software Tester and instead worked to become a business analyst. What we love about Beverly’s story is she observed the work environment around her, recorded in detail the work she had
- [Gaining the Confidence and Skills to become a Salesforce Consultant: Faraz Khan](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/faraz-khan/) - Today we meet Faraz Khan, a Salesforce Consultant, who recently was invited as a speaker for the Salesforce BA Summit alongside our founder, Laura Brandenburg, and Bridging the Gap instructor, Dr. Michael White. What we love about Faraz’s story is that by going through The Business Analyst Blueprint® training program, he was able to gain
- [The Power of Perseverance: John Sim Becomes a Salesforce Business Analyst Consultant](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/john-sim/) - Today we meet John Sim, a Financial Business Analyst from San Francisco, who recently landed a job as a Salesforce Business Analyst after much determination. What we love about John’s story is that as he searched and interviewed for business analyst opportunities, he was confident that despite how the process was going, The Business Analyst
- [Contracting as a Salesforce Business Analyst: Stephanie Belhomme](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/contractor-salesforce-business-analyst/) - Today we meet Stephanie Belhomme, a Salesforce Admin from New Jersey, who used The Business Analyst Blueprint® training program to solidify her business knowledge and maximize her opportunity with clients. What we love about Stephanie’s story is how the program provided her with concrete, quantifiable skills to increase her value to her clients no matter
- [From Project Manager to Business Analyst: Wendell White](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/wendell-white/) - Today we meet Wendell White, a Project Manager, who recently completed The Business Analyst Blueprint® training program. What we love about Wendell’s story is that, similar to many course students, he wasn’t aware that he was already performing business analysis work in his work as a project manager. Through the help of a recruiter friend,
- [Confidently Transitioning into a Senior Business Analyst Role in the Cybersecurity Industry: Michelle Bosomworth](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/cybersecurity-senior-business-analyst/) - Today we meet Michelle Bosomworth, a Senior Business Process Analyst in the Cybersecurity industry from Southwestern Ontario, who recently acquired a senior role in her company while sharpening her skills through The Business Analyst Blueprint® training program. What we love about Michelle’s story is how she was already a business analyst, but knew The Business
- [Director of Operations: An Insider Look](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/director-of-operations/) - Today we meet Paula Bell, the new Director of Operations for Bridging the Gap. From Program Instructor to Program Manager and now to Director of Operations, we are going behind the scenes and sharing exactly what this transition has looked like for Paula and the Bridging the Gap team. Laura shares more about her decision
- [From imposter syndrome to confidence: Alison Whitwood](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/alison-whitwood/) - Today we meet Alison Whitwood, a Technical Business Analyst from Sydney, Australia, who recently gained the confidence she needed to succeed in her new role. What we love about Alison’s story is how The Business Analysis Blueprint® training program equipped her with hands-on experience going beyond the theory-based knowledge she had prior to the program.
- [Elevating the BA Contribution on an Agile Software Development Team: Dave Gallant](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/ba-agile-software-development-team/) - Today we meet Dave Gallant, a Business Analyst for the Federal Government from Ontario, who recently completed The Business Analyst Blueprint® training program where his biggest takeaway was an increase in confidence in knowing what to do for deep analysis work. What we love about Dave’s story is that he was at a crossroads in
- [From Product Manager to Business Analyst: Nina Brackett](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/product-manager-to-business-analyst/) - Today we meet Nina Brackett, a Senior Business Analyst, who recently completed The Business Analyst Blueprint® training program and gained the confidence in her role that she had been searching for. What we love about Nina’s story is that due to organizational restructuring, she found herself in a Business Analyst role for the first time and
- [A Business Analyst Who's Thriving in the Energy Industry: James Dean](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/james-dean/) - Today we meet James Dean from Ireland, a recent participant in The Business Analyst Blueprint® who is thriving as a business analyst in the energy industry. James shares his journey into business analysis and moving between industries, but also his more recent expansion into leadership roles and training others throughout his company in the business
- [Nathan Relevy: How The Blueprint Filled the Gaps in His 16-Year BA Career](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/nathan-relevy/) - Today, we meet Nathan Relevy, an entrepreneur providing bespoke software solutions to businesses from the United Kingdom. Nathan shares how he is using the tools he learned in The Business Analyst Blueprint® program to serve his clients across a diverse spectrum of industries. What we love about having Nathan as part of The Business Analyst
- [Becoming the Go-To Business Analyst - An Interview with Andrea Wilson](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/andrea-wilson/) - It's my honor today to introduce you to Andrea Wilson. Andrea Wilson is doing business analysis under the title of Information Management Resource Consultant in Tallahassee, Florida, working in the court system. In this interview, you'll discover: How she received a $26,000 salary increase while moving into her first business analyst role and identifying her
- [Doing Business Analysis In a Non-Profit: Cathy Warren](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/cathy-warren/) - Today we meet Cathy Warren. Cathy was a Systems Analyst 20 years ago and is currently a Program Director at a non-profit, and has applied her business analyst skills in this role. Tune in to discover how Cathy: Got back into doing business analysis by modeling an event management process for her non-profit. Fell back
- [Providing Credibility for Your Knowledge and Experience with The Blueprint®: Emma Lander](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/emma-lander/) - Today, we meet Emma Lander, a CSI Analyst from Bournemouth, England, who recently completed The Business Analyst Blueprint® training program while simultaneously transitioning into a new career. What we love about Emma’s story is how she used The Business Analyst Blueprint® to hit the ground running in her new career as a CSI Analyst. In
- [From Laid Off to Mentor of Business Analysts: Anna](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/anna/) - Today we meet Anna, a business analyst who has been journeying with Bridging the Gap since 2017! What we love about Anna’s story is how she found herself performing various aspects of a business analyst career before joining the Bridging the Gap program. Despite facing career uncertainty and layoffs, her decision to join the program
- [How to Get Your BA Career Back On Track](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/restart-business-analyst-career/) - I firmly believe that once you are a business analyst, you are always a business analyst. However, it’s easy to fall into a role where you are no longer doing traditional business analyst work, and you can start to feel like you are losing your skill set. Perhaps you took a career break to take
- [Thoughts on the IIBA new ECBA certificate](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/ecba-certificate/) - I'm often asked about my opinion on the new Entry Certificate in Business Analysis™ (ECBA™) from the International Institute of Business Analysis™ (IIBA®), and whether it's a good investment of time and energy. At Bridging the Gap, we serve mid-career professionals, and most of the individuals who ask me about the ECBA have at least
- [When are you "done" with requirements?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/when-are-you-done-with-requirements/) - Defines what it means to finish a software requirements document: alignment, buildable, and quality.
- [5 Steps to Becoming a CBAP](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/steps-to-becoming-a-cbap/) - Your path to the CBAP will depend on your experience, budget and time line. These 8 steps to becoming a CBAP put each decision you'll need to make in context.
- [Are There Any Free Webinars That Offer PDs?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/there-any-free-webinars-that-offer-pds-professional-development-hour/) - I'm going to apply for my CBAP or CCBA certification. How can I meet the requirement for Professional Development Hours (PDs) without spending any money?
- [Investing Some Time in Stakeholder Analysis](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/investing-some-time-in-stakeholder-analysis/) - One often-overlooked aspect to avoiding missing requirements is stakeholder analysis. Stakeholder analysis ensures you have the right people involved in the requirements process. Often, requirements are missed simply because stakeholders are missed - and so you don't get the input you need to actually discover all of the requirements. In a sense, without the right
- [Make Your Requirements Atomic!](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/make-your-requirements-atomic/) - In this article, Adrian Reed considers the importance of ensuring declarative requirements statements are "atomic" -- and in doing so draws on his eclectic music collection!
- [What's the Difference Between a Wireframe, Mock-Up, and Prototype?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/wireframe-mock-up-prorotype-difference/) - Would you be interested in learning more about how to visually represent your requirements, even if you have little to no technology skills? Have you been seeing the terms "wireframe", "mock-up", and "prototype" in BA jobs and wonder what they mean? In this article, we'll discuss what these terms mean, as well as provide some
- [What's the Difference Between PDs, CDUs, and PDUs?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/pds-cdus-and-pdus-difference/) - When you begin evaluating training providers, you'll find a variety of acronyms are used to describe how you can leverage the training programs as part of your certification and re-certification goals. These acronyms often get confused by providers and course participants alike. In this article, we'll explain the difference between PDs, CDUs, and PDUs, which
- [Should I Pursue the CBAP or the CCBA?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/should-i-pursue-the-cbap-or-the-ccba/) - When you find yourself in the market for a business analysis certification, you'll quickly discover that you have many choices. One question we receive again and again is whether to pursue the CBAP or CCBA. About the CBAP and CCBA Both certifications are offered by International Institute of Business Analysis™ (IIBA®). The CBAP is the Certified
- [The PMI-PBA vs. IIBA CBAP or CCBA](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/the-pmi-pba-vs-iiba-cbap-or-ccba/) - There has been a lot of discussion lately about the impact of the Project Management Institute (PMI)® new Professional in Business Analysis (PMI-PBA)℠ certification on the business analysis profession and what it means to the Certified Business Analysis Professional™ (CBAP®) and Certification of Competency in Business Analysis™ (CCBA®) offered by the International Institute of Business Analysis™ (IIBA®).
- [How to Move from Technical Writing to Business Analysis](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/technical-writing-to-ba/) - A technical writer is a professional who creates technical documentation that helps people understand how to use a product or service. Documentation includes work like user guides, help files, as is business processes and procedures, and technical design specifications. (By the way, if you are interested in learning about your best path forward into a
- [How to Move from Software Tester to Business Analyst](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/software-tester-to-ba/) - A software tester is a professional responsible for verifying that the software solution meets the specified requirements. Software testers and business analysts are like two sides of the same coin. The Skills Software Testers Bring to a Business Analyst Position Because of their experience reviewing requirements documentation, many software testers know exactly what it takes
- [How to Move from Customer Service to Business Analyst](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/customer-service-to-ba/) - Customer service representatives are professionals who help new or prospective customers solve problems or answer questions related to a product or service. The Skills Customer Service Professionals Bring to a Business Analyst Position Customer service professionals tend to be excellent communicators and relationship builders, and this prepares them to handle the more challenging aspects of
- [How to Move from Project Manager to Business Analyst](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/project-manager-to-ba/) - A project manager is responsible for overseeing the project from concept through to delivery. In reality, there is a lot of overlap between business analysis and project management roles, and many project managers are doing a lot of business analysis, especially if there is no formal business analyst assigned to the project team. The Skills
- [What a 17-Year Career Path in Business Analysis Looks Like: Stephanie Cracknell](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/stephanie-cracknell/) - It's my honor today to introduce you to Stephanie Cracknell, one of Bridging the Gap's early course participants who has come a long, long way in her career since participating in our programs back in 2013. She shares her career trajectory with us, along with her keys to success. In this interview, you'll discover: How
- [3 Ways to Write Clearer Requirements](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/clear-requirements/) - Clarity is one of the most fundamental attributes of writing good requirements. Clear requirements are less likely to be misunderstood by business stakeholders and technical implementers. Clear requirements require fewer review cycles to confirm and validate them. Clear requirements lead to insightful questions, that show your power and value as a business analyst. But what
- [From Underwriting to Business Analyst with English As Her Third Language: Zineb Iotti](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/zineb-iotti/) - It's my honor today to introduce you to Zineb Iotti in Zurich, Switzerland, who is now doing business analysis under the title of Transformation Manager on a multi-lingual team. In this interview, you'll discover: Why she decided to pursue a career in business analysis, even though her first job applications were rejected. How she moved
- [How to Find Business Analyst Volunteer Positions](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/find-business-analyst-volunteer-positions/) - You can volunteer to build business analyst experience. The opportunities may seem elusive, but they are there if you know how to find them.
- [Requirements Prioritization Made Simple](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/requirements-prioritization/) - Ask your stakeholders to prioritize requirements and you are likely to hear groans. While conceptually we understand that project budgets are limited, and requirements prioritization helps us receive the most possible value for our investments in technology, there is a part of us that wants it ALL and wants it ALL NOW. And that’s why
- [What Requirements to Specify for COTS and SaaS Projects](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/requirements-for-a-cots-or-saas-projects/) - As a business analyst on a COTS or Saas project your role changes. COTS requirements focus on ensuring fit to business needs and defining a solution approach.
- [From Technical Writer to Lead Business Analyst and a $20K Salary Bump: Amelia McHenry](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/technical-writer-to-lead-ba/) - Today we meet Amelia McHenry, a Business Analyst, who completed The Business Analyst Blueprint® program where she gained the confidence to go from a technical writer to a lead business analyst while increasing her salary and her confidence. What we love about Amelia’s story is that when she was faced with a crossroads in her
- [These Are the Top Technical Skills that Business Analysts Really Need to Know](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/business-analyst-technical-skills/) - Today we’re going to answer a question that comes up quite often, and that’s what technical skills a business analyst needs to be well-positioned in the job market and to be able to have detailed discussions with technical professionals. While it’s important that a business analyst has a conceptual technical understanding as it helps you
- [What is a Functional Analyst?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/functional-analyst/) - Looking to take your career as a business analyst to the next level? Wondering how a Functional Analyst role can fit into your career path? There is a lot of confusion in the industry about what business analysts are and what they actually do. The reality is that the skill set of a business analyst
- [The Difference Between Data Analysis and Data Modeling](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/data-analysis-data-modeling-difference/) - In today’s information-rich world, we are seeing more and more data-related analysis skills in business analysis jobs. We’ve been asked several times whether business intelligence and business analysis roles are really different roles, and how to build a career path into business analysis without getting wrapped into business intelligence and data analysis. (By the way,
- [How to Create an Entity Relationship Diagram (ERD)](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/erd-entity-relationship-diagram/) - An Entity Relationship Diagram (ERD) is a data model describing how entities (or concepts or things) relate to one another. When created by business analysts or business users, ERDs can be used to understand the business domain, clarify business terminology, and connect business concepts to database structures. (By the way, if you are looking to
- [How to Approach a Data Migration Project](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/data-migration-project/) - When an organization is planning to move data from one system to another, planning the data migration is an important aspect of the project to ensure that the right data ends up in the right place in the new system. When the data isn’t in the right places, it does appear to a business user
- [Turning a Skill Set into a Repeatable Framework: Chad Crider](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/chad-crider/) - Today we meet Chad Crider, a recent participant in The Business Analyst Blueprint® training program and an Applications Analyst from CNG Inc in Ohio. With over 20 years of experience on a different career path, Chad found himself entering into a role that needed a proven, repeatable process framework. What we love about Chad’s story
- [53 Tips For Discovering All the Requirements](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/53-tips-discover-all-the-requirements/) - Are you wondering what concrete steps you can take to make sure you don't overlook requirements on your next project? In business analysis, the set of techniques used to discover the requirements is called elicitation. For the most part, elicitation is a fancy word for asking a lot of questions and getting clarity on the answers. But it
- [The 7 Secrets of Good and Great Business Analysts](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/good-business-analysts/) - In my experience as a business analyst, manager of business analysts, and now trainer of business analysts, there are certain qualities that set high-performing business analysts apart. These qualities make them highly coveted by managers and pave the way to more career opportunities. Being a great business analyst goes beyond foundational skills. It’s about being
- [How to Avoid These 5 Business Analyst Mistakes!](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/business-analyst-mistakes/) - Many business analysts are perfectionists by nature and want to do everything they can to avoid making mistakes. But it's not uncommon for our perfectionism to actually be the root cause of the challenges we face! In this video, I'll cover how to avoid the most common business analyst mistakes, so you can make smart
- [Requirements Deadlines Unrealistic? - Here's How to Respond](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/requirements-deadlines/) - Today we're talking about an issue that's more common for business analysts than you might expect. And that's how to handle the situation when your project manager insists on an unrealistic requirements deadline, even after you have mapped out your business analysis plan. In this video, I share exactly what to do in this situation.
- [How to Start a New Project as a Business Analyst](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/start-new-project-business-analyst/) - Congratulations - you've been asked to start a new project as a business analyst! While it can feel quick and effective to jump right in and start requirements documentation, this habit is likely to lead you down the wrong path, really, really quickly. In this video I share the 3 things you should do first,
- [Cloud Implementations: 3 Essential Types of Requirements](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/cloud-implementation-requirements/) - As more organizations are working on cloud implementation projects, or leveraging software available in a SaaS (Software as a Service) environment, like Salesforce.com or ServiceNow, many business analysts feel that it isn’t necessary to capture requirements at the same level of detail as you would if you were building or updating software in-house. And that
- [How to Become a Business Analyst Mid-Career](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/becoming-a-business-analyst/) - To become a business analyst, even with limited experience, you need to position yourself to succeed. Learn how in this step-by-step guide to becoming a BA.
- [What's next? What Careers Can I Explore with My Business Analyst Experience?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/whats-next-careers-beyond-business-analyst/) - What careers will my business analyst experience qualify me for? What promotions are available out of business analysis? What comes next after being a BA?
- [How Do I Become an IT BA If I Don't Have an IT Background?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/help-a-ba-how-do-become-a-ba-if-i-dont-have-an-it-background/) - An IT background is not necessary to for a BA, but it can feel like the deck is stacked against you. Learn how to leverage your strengths to get into a BA role.
- [What Career Backgrounds Do Business Analysts Have?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/career-backgrounds-business-analysts/) - Can a software developer become a business analyst? How about a technical writer, benefits manager, financial services representative, or quality assurance engineer? With over 25 career transition stories, it's likely we've got a career background like yours cover.
- [3 Business Process Modeling Case Studies - How to Leverage Business Process Analysis to Up-Level Your Business Analyst Career](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/business-process-modeling-case-studies/) - Business process modeling is used by BAs and non-BAs alike to create lasting change in organizations. It’s how we actually make our ripple effect as business analysts. Today we get specific as I’m sharing 3 examples of some of our business analysts and to-be business analysts, and exactly how they applied business process modeling to change not
- [Getting Hired as a Business Analyst After Immigrating to a New Country: Eno Eka](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/immigrating-business-analyst/) - One question we receive often in the Bridging the Gap community is around how to immigrate into a new country and find a business analyst job. I’m so grateful to Eno Eka for sharing her personal story to finding a BA job just 2 weeks after arriving in Canada. But while we set out to
- [How to Get Started as a BA Even if You Have No Formal Experience](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/no-business-analyst-experience/) - If you are looking to start a business analyst career, but don’t yet have any business analyst experience, you might feel caught in a trap. What comes first, the business analyst or the business analyst experience? Why do so many industry veterans say they just “fell” into business analysis and what can you do to
- [What Should I Study in College to Become a Business Analyst?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/help-a-ba-what-should-i-study-in-college-to-become-a-business-analyst/) - A reader asks: Hello, I am very interested in becoming a business analyst, the only problem is I have no idea where to begin. One main question I have is what do I need to study in college that can lead me to the point of becoming a BA? I understand that the term "BA"
- [How to Analyze an "As Is" Business Process](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/as-is-business-process/) - As a business analyst, it’s your job to analyze the As Is Business Process in your organization to help everyone get on the same page. If customers are getting frustrated with your organization’s level of service or if business users are confused about the right process and steps to take in a given situation, this
- [How to Analyze a "To Be" Business Process](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/to-be-business-process/) - As a business analyst, it’s your role to analyze the To Be Business Process and help your stakeholders define how work will flow once the new solution is in place. In this short video, you’ll discover: The definition of a To Be Business Process How to analyze a To Be Business Process Where to start
- [Guide to Business Analyst Performance Metrics and KPIs](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/business-analyst-performance-metrics-kpi/) - Measuring the business analyst's success on a project involves looking at how well the business stakeholders are aligned around the concept and how clear the development team is during delivery.
- [How To Avoid Imposter Syndrome](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/avoid-imposter-syndrome/) - I have coached a lot of incredibly talented professionals and almost every one of them have moments (or days, weeks, months, or even years) of self doubt, or that feeling of imposter syndrome. As business analysts, we’re great at picking things apart, especially when it’s our own abilities, skill sets, and contributions. I believe you
- [Is A College Degree Required to Start a Business Analyst Career?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/college-degree-business-analyst/) - If you are looking to start a business analyst career, you may be wondering if a college, undergraduate, or bachelor's degree is required. While I believe the answer is no - you can always create opportunities for yourself. I do realize that having an undergrad degree is required by many organizations, and if you have
- [Use Cases: A Personal History (and a bit of a love affair)](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/use-cases-a-personal-history-and-a-bit-of-a-love-affair/) - Use cases are a wonderful tool for business analysts and I share my story of learning them, applying them to new situations, and coming to terms with where a use case fits in an agile environment.
- [How to Write User Stories](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/user-stories/) - Managing and documenting functional requirements and project planning via a shared concept of user stories is the crux of agile development methodology.
- [User Stories Versus Use Cases](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/user-stories-use-cases/) - If you are on an agile team, do you write user stories, use cases, or both? My take is that until you know how to think in use cases, you need to write them to be sure you’ve got a clear and complete view of the software or functional requirements, even on an agile team.
- [7 Mistakes Even the Best Make When Writing Use Cases](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/7-use-case-writing-mistakes/) - Do you find your developers have one follow-up question after another about how the system is really supposed to work, even though you documented the functionality in a use case? Worse yet, did your development team implement something completely different than you and your business stakeholders expected? Or, do your testers (bless their souls) come back to
- [3 Situations that are Absolutely Perfect for Use Cases!](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/when-would-you-write-a-use-case/) - A use case is a type of textual requirements specification that captures how a user will interact with a solution, specifically a software solution, to achieve a specific goal. They are a very common way to create “developer ready” specifications.
- [Terry Mullins: Professional Growth Boost](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/terry-mullins/) - Today, we meet Terry Mullins, who is currently working as an IT business analyst in the engineering and construction industry. Terry shares his experience in The Business Analysis Blueprint®️ program and how it helped propel him forward in his 30+ year career in the same company. What we found insightful about Terry’s story is how
- [10 Business Analyst Performance Goals](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/10-business-analyst-performance-goals/) - Keep moving forward by setting appropriate performance goals for your business analyst role. Here are 10 performance goals you don't want to overlook.
- [Data Feed Requirements  - A Template](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/data-feed-requirements/) - Getting ready to exchange data with another organization? Looking for an easy-to-use template to ensure you cover all of your bases? We've got you covered.
- [How to Create Quick and Effective Meeting Agenda](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/how-to-create-quick-and-effective-meeting-agendas/) - Simple meeting agendas with a clear outcome for the meeting and list of agenda items can save countless minutes in ineffective meetings.
- [How to Keep a Big Picture Perspective on an Agile Project](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/an-agile-experience-recreating-the-big-picture-amid-an-influx-of-tiny-details/) - A challenge for the agile product owner is to maintain and communicate the "big picture" while also detailing out requirements in very small, discrete pieces.
- [STOP! You Are Being Too Detail-Oriented!](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/stop-you-are-being-too-detail-oriented/) - Oftentimes business analysts communicate from the details. This can make it difficult for stakeholders to provide requirements.
- [Being an Independent Business Analyst Consultant](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/business-analyst-independent-consultant/) - Help a business analyst become a consultant. Share your BA consulting experience to help others in our profession through these tough times.
- [3 Steps to Preparing for an Elicitation Session](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/preparing-elicitation-session/) - It's difficult to even think about being a business analyst without elicitation. Yet, it's so core, it's often difficult to abstract from the other BA tasks as well. It seems we are almost always eliciting something - the business need, the solution requirements, our stakeholder's concerns, assumptions and constraints, detailed requirements, etc. Some elicitation will,
- [How Do Business Analysts Verify Requirements? (BABOK 6.5)](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/what-are-your-requirements-verification-practices-babok-6-5/) - Requirements verification ensures our requirements meet a certain baseline for quality. What are your requirements verification practices?
- [How to Validate Requirements (BABOK 6.6)](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/validate-requirements-babok-6-6/) - Most BAs do requirements validation and verification together. They are separate tasks with separate purposes. Learn how to improve your validation practices.
- [What Experience "Counts" as Business Analyst Experience? (5 Examples)](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/business-analyst-experience-counts/) - Have you ever wondered whether a particular experience "counts" as a business analyst experience? Or have you gone through a process to identify your transferable business analyst skills, but still feel yourself coming up short (even though you know you could do the job)? Would you be interested in reading several examples of how professionals without
- [What's the Business Analyst Role on a Software Project?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/whats-the-business-analyst-role-on-a-software-project/) - Have you ever wondered how a business analyst approaches a software project? Would you be interested in the general phases of work a business analyst completes and what activities are included in each phase? Well, you'll find plenty of answers out there about the one "right" way to do business analysis, but that's never been
- [From Programmer to Business Analyst: How to Snap Back from a Layoff after 35 Years with One Company](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/from-programmer-to-business-analyst-how-to-snap-back-from-a-layoff-after-35-years-with-one-company/) - John Jones began his career as a programmer. Through consistent performance and time, he was given more responsibility to talk with the process owners and users to do the analysis before the design and coding work. Although John worked through the entire development lifecycle, the company didn't have a separate BA practice. Through the 35 ½
- [Why a Computer Science Degree is Not Required to Be Successful as a Business Analyst](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/computer-science-degree-necessary-for-business-analyst/) - Tacked onto the end of many BA job descriptions is a misnomer of a requirement. It often looks something like this: "Degree in computer science (or equivalent) preferred." While this requirement can be in place for many reasons, it falsely leads many BAs and those looking to get started as BAs to wonder if they
- [How to Make the Requirements Process Faster With Visual Models](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/how-to-make-the-requirements-process-faster-with-visual-models/) - Many business analysts mistakenly believe that adding a visual model to a specification – or preparing one specifically for a requirements meeting – means significant extra work. But in reality, using the right visual modeling tools pays immediate dividends by making the requirements process faster. Let’s take a look at some of the circumstances that slow the
- [The IT Business Analyst - 4 Ways the Job Description is Expanding](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/the-it-business-analyst-job-description/) - While it would be natural to assume that an IT Business Analyst works on technology systems, the IT Business Analyst job description is necessarily expanding beyond the "IT" component and into the "Business" component, and that means great things for the career prospects of analysts in this space. In this article, we'll look at a concept
- [How Data Modeling Fits Into the Business Analysis Process](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/data-modeling-business-analysis-process/) - Part of the value the business analyst provides is selecting techniques to ensure the requirements for a project are fully analyzed and understood. Data modeling can be a significant part of the project requirements to rightfully non-existent, even for a software project. In this article, you'll learn what data modeling techniques to consider in specific project contexts so that
- [Behind-the-Scenes in Business Analysis, Part 4: Applying the Business Analysis Process to Small Initiatives](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/behind-the-scenes-in-business-analysis-part-4/) - Welcome to part 4 of our 5-part Behind-the-Scenes in Business Analysis series where I’ll walk you through how I've handled some of my most interesting business analysis projects using the business analysis process. Part 4 – where we look at what to do when the business stakeholders have already told the developer everything they think
- [Behind-the-Scenes in Business Analysis, Part 5: A Project That Switched to Agile in the Middle (That Was Fun!)](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/behind-the-scenes-in-business-analysis-part-5/) - Welcome to part 4 of our 5-part Behind-the-Scenes in Business Analysis series where I’ll walk you through how I've handled some of my most interesting business analysis projects using the business analysis process. Part 5 – where we look at how the BA process applies to agile, because despite what you might be reading out
- [8 things to love about business analysis](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/8-things-to-love-about-business-analysis/) - Happy Valentines’ Day! This year my daughter went ALL OUT on her Valentine’s Day cards for her pre-school class, using stickers, stamps, and even some glitter to make each card unique and then carefully writing her name. While it’s difficult to send you glitter (and you are probably grateful for this – seriously, we are
- [From Customer Service to Business Analysis - Adam Haesler Does Not Take "No" For an Answer](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/adam-haesler/) - I'm so excited to be able to share this case study interview with you. Adam Haesler's BA career has been evolving for the last 2 years, and he recently landed his first formal business analyst position. Learn how Adam got more confident in his business analysis skills, mined his career for relevant experiences (even without
- [How to Avoid Incomplete Business Requirements](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/incomplete-business-requirements/) - There are many reasons that BAs end up producing incomplete requirements, and this can have an extremely negative impact on our job performance. Today we’re taking a question from one Bridging the Gap community member, who gave us this scenario: "In my company, there are no business requirements meetings. Business requirements are discussed among other
- [Jennifer Hurley Leverages Flexible Training to Get Hours for Certification](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/jennifer-hurley-case-study/) - Today we meet Jennifer Hurley who joined The Business Analyst Blueprint® program with a team of business analysts, as part of pursuing her certification goals. As a single mom, a lot of training options are not feasible, and our flexible online training program gave her opportunities to expand her skills and get the credits she
- [Shelly Feyerherm - Experienced BA Who Deepens her Knowledge and Re-Certifies for the CBAP](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/shelly-feyerherm-case-study/) - Today we meet Shelley Feyerherm who joined The Business Analyst Blueprint® program as a CBAP® with several years of business analysis experience. She shares how the program helped her deepen her knowledge of core business analysis skills, by going beyond the surface. Connect with Shelly Feyerherm on LinkedIn Shelly also shares some tips for getting
- [How to Transition to Agile as a Waterfall Business Analyst](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/agile-waterfall-business-analyst/) - So, you’ve heard the news – your organization is going agile. Or you are looking for jobs, and every single one requires agile experience. What does this mean for you, your career, and business analysis? How do you leverage your skills and experience in a waterfall environments to succeed as an agile business analyst?
- [Getting Clear Requirements in Agile from Waterfall Stakeholders](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/agile-requirements/) - We’re going to the dark side of business analysis and agile requirements today, and looking at how we really help out end users who still have a waterfall mindset get clear about their requirements. You do not need to feel alone if you’ve dealt with this situation before or are dealing with it right now.
- [Michael Rodriguez Raises His Level of Thinking, and Affirms He is Doing Things Right as a Business Analyst](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/michael-rodriguez/) - When Michael Rodriguez joined The Business Analyst Blueprint®, he had quite a bit of experience (like 10-15 years of experience) gathering requirements as a software development lead. He is a highly skilled and competent professional, and was looking to take his business analysis skills to the next level. Michael shares many tips with us in
- [Sara Rankin Gains Confidence to Build a Business Analyst Career Using her Innate Gifts](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/sara-rankin/) - Sara Rankin has always loved asking questions and solving problems, and only recently learned that there is a profession and a job title for doing just that! I love Sara's story of self-realization and self-actualization, from the bigger ideals of doing work that truly leverages her innate gifts with more clarity and confidence and shifting
- [Perry McGuire Boosts His Practical BA Skills, and Soon After Lands 2 BA Job Offers in the UK](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/perry-mcguire/) - Perry McGuire joined The Business Analyst Blueprint® having held the title of business analyst, but not fulfilling the full scope of business analyst work he found in his local job postings in Jersey, one of the British Islands. By going through each of the skill sets in The Business Analyst Blueprint® and applying them through
- [How to Catch Up on Technology and Skills in a New Organization](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/new-organization/) - In a recent webinar, one of our community members asked this powerful question: I have been in a BA role for over 8-years and recently changed organizations and I am finding that I am not currently up to date on technology and skills. How can I catch up without overwhelming myself? Switching business analyst jobs
- [How to Almost Instantly Achieve More Success in Your Business Analyst Career](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/business-analyst-success-tip/) - Today we have a super quick, but super high-impact tip for you – and it will help you achieve more success in your business analyst career almost instantly! For those who like to read instead of watch, here’s the full text of the video: Are you looking for a way to achieve instantly more success
- [Innovation in Learning – Leveraging the Real World in Training to Create Success](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/innovation-in-learning/) - I was honored to be one of the featured speakers at Penny Pullan’s Business Analysis Summit. The topic was Innovation and I specifically answered questions about our innovative learning model at Bridging the Gap, and how we help mid-career professionals accelerate their careers by bridging experience gaps. Penny has graciously allowed me to share the recording and full transcript
- [Leading the Way in Sustainability - Interview with Lisa Curll from Dominion Energy](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/lisa-curll-dominion-energy/) - Today we meet Lisa Curll - Business Performance Analyst managing sustainability projects at Dominion Energy. She has so much wisdom to share with you - I invite you to jump right in. Watch or read to learn: How Lisa went from Administrative Assistant to Business Analysis. What it looks like to roll out a sustainability
- [Super Effective Meetings: 5 Quick and Easy Tips](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/effective-meetings/) - Starting a meeting by articulating how the agenda fits into the project context can help make your meetings more productive.
- [Medical Interpreter On His Way to Business Analyst: Dilli Sharma](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/dilli-sharma/) - Today we meet Dilli Sharma, and it was such an incredible honor to meet him and hear his story. Dilli is currently employed as a Medical Interpreter and does an incredible job identifying his transferable skills and capabilities, as well as articulate his goals and passions for the business analyst role. Listen in to learn
- [The Origin of the Bridging the Gap Business Analysis Process Framework](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/business-analysis-framework/) - Hundreds of business analysts have learned and applied the Bridging the Gap Business Analysis Process Framework to make their BA work more effective and successful. And I’ve been receiving lots of questions about how this framework came to be… The answer might surprise you… To learn more about the 8-step business analysis process framework,
- [From Donor Management to Remote Business Analyst: Lane Malone](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/lane-malone/) - It's my honor today to introduce you to Lane Malone, who transitioned from Donor Management in the Non-Profit Sector into an official Business Analysis Role. Watch or read to learn how Lane: Proved the value of business analysis by analyzing a complex business process. Discovered that business analysis was her favorite aspect of work, and
- [Business Analyst Interview Questions and Answers – How to Really Sell Your BA Skills](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/ba-interview-sell-skills/) - If you are preparing for your first business analyst job interview or if it’s been awhile since you’ve interviewed, you are probably wondering what to expect. Interviewing for a business analyst job is very different than interviewing for a more technical or domain-focused role. In particular, what’s different is how you position your skills to
- [The Typical Day of a Business Analyst](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/typical-day-business-analyst/) - Hi, I’m Laura Brandenburg from Bridging the Gap, and we provide online business analyst training and certification programs for business analysts who are looking to start and succeed in their business analyst careers. If you are thinking of starting a career in business analysis, you are probably wondering what is a typical day like? What
- [22 Visual Models Used by Business Analysts](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/22-visual-models-used-by-business-analysts/) - Today we’re going to go through 22 different models BAs use in their work. You may not be aware of all 22 of them, so even if you’re familiar with a few, keep your eyes open for new ones you can use. (By the way, real-world samples of each of these visual models are included
- [The Top 5 Elicitation Techniques Used By Business Analysts](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/elicitation-techniques-business-analysts/) - Elicitation is the process of discovering the requirements. In particular, elicitation often refers to engaging with stakeholders to understand their needs and expectations when it comes to the scope and detailed requirements of the project. There are many requirements elicitation techniques. When many BAs think of elicitation, they think of big complex, full day workshops. In most
- [Job Titles for Business Analysts](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/job-titles-for-business-analysts/) - Are you looking for a business analyst job and finding a dizzying array of job titles? Do you have a title other than Business Analyst but know you really are a business analyst or have a fair amount of business analyst job responsibilities? Or do you have the Business Analyst job title, but don’t really
- [What is the Difference Between a Subject Matter Expert and a Business Analyst?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/subject-matter-expert-vs-business-analyst/) - Are you a subject matter expert or a business analyst? What is the difference, really? While business analysts own projects, SMEs often work within the business.
- [Navigating the Interplay between Project Management and Business Analysis for Project Success](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/project-manager-business-analyst/) - Project Managers and Business Analysts are two roles that are often intertwined and sometimes confused. While similar, they have distinct responsibilities and skill sets. I recently hosted a LinkedIn Live with project management expert, Elizabeth Harrin where we dug into the overlaps and differences between these two roles, as well as how professionals in these
- [Business Analyst Certification Options – Introducing the Applied Certification in Business Analysis™ (ACBA)](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/business-analyst-certification/) - As Bridging the Gap introduced the Applied Certification in Business Analysis™, which you can earn when you participate in The Business Analyst Blueprint® certification program, we’ve been receiving a lot of questions about the ACBA, and also how it compares to the certification options offered by other providers, like IIBA® and PMI®. So today, I’m
- [5 Effective Diagramming Tools You Can Afford](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/diagramming-tools/) - Looking for a diagramming tool that you can afford? Find 5 possible tools listed with prices. Create nearly any diagram with just 1 or 2 of them.
- [Using Wireframes or Prototypes to Elicit, Analyze, and Validate Software Requirements](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/using-wireframes-or-prototypes-to-elicit-analyze-and-validate-software-requirements/) - Wireframes and prototypes are useful tools in validating, analyzing, and eliciting software requirements by modeling the end-to-end work-flow and navigation.
- [3 Shortcuts to Create Wireframes in Record Time](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/3-shortcuts-to-create-wireframes/) - Taking time to focus your wireframe efforts can help ensure they are an effective piece of eliciting software requirements.
- [How to Blend a Data Dictionary with Use Cases, Wireframes, and Workflow Diagrams](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/how-to-blend-a-data-dictionary-with-use-cases-wireframes-and-workflow-diagrams/) - As a business analyst, it would be rare for you to complete a data dictionary on its own. Rather, it's likely that you'll be analyzing data requirements in combination with other business analysis techniques. In this article, we look at how dictionaries can intersect with 3 commonly used business analyst techniques - use cases, user interface wireframes,
- [The Power of Wireframes](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/wireframes/) - Imagine using a simple wireframe to create a visual representation of a screen in just a matter of minutes. No, you don’t have to be a UX designer to even aspire to be one. In today's fast-paced world, getting everyone on the same page about software functionality is crucial. That’s where wireframes come in! They
- [How to Get Meaningful Sign-Off on Requirements](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/meaningful-sign-off-on-requirements/) - Foregoing traditional requirements reviews for targeted discovery and validation can actually improve your requirements and create more successful software projects.
- [Can you really be too business oriented?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/too-business-oriented/) - Have you been told that you are “too business oriented?” How could that be? As business analysts, we are supposed to figure out what the business wants and needs, right? Yes…and, well, no. Watch this short video to learn how to respond to this kind of feedback. Key points include: Appreciating technical and project constraints that
- [How Business Analysts Create Value](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/how-does-a-business-analyst-create-value/) - Business analysis contributes to the bottom line by increasing project benefits and reducing project costs, thereby increasing ROI (return on investment).
- [Do You Have the Key Business Stakeholders Involved in Your Project?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/do-you-have-the-key-business-stakeholders-involved-in-your-project/) - Involving the right business stakeholders and subject matter experts in defining requirements is fundamental to project success.
- [3 Elicitation Techniques You Can Do Without Stakeholder Access](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/3-elicitation-techniques-you-can-do-without-stakeholder-access/) - In this article, Adrian Reed outlines three techniques that can be used when initial stakeholder availability is poor
- [How to get the information you need from your stakeholders](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/how-to-get-the-info-you-need/) - If you’ve ever been told that you aren’t pushy enough to be a business analyst, you are going to want to read today’s article. Pushy isn’t easy, and it isn’t in our DNA as business analysts. Yet, when we wait around passively for information, we can subject our projects to a whole host of problems.
- [How to Build Engagement with Stakeholders](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/stakeholder-engagement/) - Stakeholder engagement is incredibly important to successful business analysis. Without engaged stakeholders who care about the project and understand the work you do as a business analyst, you will work harder to discover the right requirements. You’ll face issues like stakeholders not showing up to your meetings, unanswered questions about requirements that delay your project,
- [Dealing with Difficult Stakeholders Who Are Resistant to Change](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/resistant-stakeholders-change/) - As business analysts improving business processes, it’s not uncommon for us to encounter stakeholders with a deep-rooted suspicion of IT and the belief that no matter what, the solution is not going to work for them. So what do you do? In today’s video, I share 5 ways to help difficult stakeholders on the path
- [10 Tips to Engage Stakeholders](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/engage-stakeholders/) - Stakeholder engagement is critical to success as a business analyst. Yet, often BAs will face challenges getting stakeholders engaged on their projects. They don’t show up to meetings or don’t provide the input you need to successfully navigate the requirements process. Today I’m sharing 10 tips for engaging your stakeholders. Looking to Take These
- [How to Build Rapport with Critical Stakeholders](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/building-rapport-with-stakeholders/) - When you start a new BA role at a new company, the most important thing you can do is build critical stakeholder relationships.
- [The Difference Between Business Intelligence and Business Analyst Roles](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/business-intelligence-analysis-roles/) - It’s all about data these days and in this video, Laura Brandenburg explores the key differences between business intelligence and business analyst roles. If you’re looking for a career that’s high in demand, has immense growth potential, and will ride the wave of data revolution, an opportunity in the business intelligence space might be for
- [How to Leverage a Hybrid Role For Your Career Expansion](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/hybrid-business-analyst-role/) - Hybrid roles are becoming more of a reality in today’s workforce. You may be a business analyst while also taking on other roles like becoming a project manager, tester, product manager, or even a developer. While this diversity offers great long-term career options, it can sometimes leave you feeling overwhelmed and unfocused day to day.
- [How to Manage Change Requests](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/how-to-manage-change-requests/) - As a business analyst, you can make a huge difference in how change is managed and save your teams a lot of re-work while neutralizing the negative energy often associated with change. In this short video, you’ll discover a simple 4-step process to manage change requests so they don’t derail the success of your project.
- [Business Architecture: The Ins and Outs with Whynde Kuehn](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/business-architecture/) - Whether you’re learning about business architecture for the first time or dreaming of ways to grow your BA career into a business architecture role, my conversation with Whynde Kuehn will help you discover the value of this role in an organization and what you can do to bridge that gap in your career. In this
- [The Difference Between a Product Manager Role and a Business Analyst](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/product-manager-role/) - The product manager role and business analyst role go hand in hand. Many product managers get their start as business analysts, and as a product manager, you can expect to work closely with a business analyst. What’s the difference between the two roles? And how do you transition from one role to another? That’s the
- [BTG Template Bundle Product Demonstration](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/template-toolkit-demo/) - One of the more frequently asked questions we receive from potential buyers of our template products is, “What do they look like?” To answer this question, I recorded a short demo of each of our 5 business analyst template toolkits. You’ll receive a sneak peek into: BA Template Toolkit Email Communication Templates Requirements Discovery Checklist
- [BAs are Difficult People (And So Is Everyone Else)](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/bas-are-difficult-people-and-so-is-everyone-else/) - Everyone is difficult from a perspective. Discuss some common BA traits that simultaneously can make us good at what we do and perceived as difficult.
- [What To Do When a Developer Says "That's Impossible"](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/what-to-do-when-a-developer-tells-you-thats-impossible/) - Handling a frustrating conflict between requirements and design takes some ingenuity, patience, and a healthy dose of respect. Collaborative effort is key.
- [How to Interrupt Someone in a Meeting](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/how-to-interrupt-someone-in-a-meeting/) - Have you ever been holding your breath waiting not-so-patiently to get a word in edgewise while one participant dominated the discussion? You see one stakeholder after another begin to check out while "that" person drones on and on about their favorite feature or pet peeve that has absolutely nothing to do with your meeting agenda.
- [How Do I Get Feedback on a Requirements Document Without Sounding Too Demanding?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/help-a-ba-how-do-i-request-feedback-on-a-requirements-document-without-sounding-too-demanding/) - Have you been waiting for weeks for feedback on a requirements document? Figure out what's happening and take these steps to get the feedback you need.
- [Michael Scott's Guide to Facilitating a Meeting](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/the-michael-scott-guide-to-facilitating-a-meeting/) - You might not think that Michael Scott of NBC's The Office has much to teach you about facilitating a meeting. But I disagree! If you'll take a closer look with me, you'll discover that Michael does just about as much right as he does wrong. In both respects, he's a worthy guide to a business analyst looking
- [How to Get Your Stakeholders to Stop Repeating Themselves](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/are-you-really-listening/) - Do you ever feel like your stakeholders keep repeating themselves? Would you like certain aspects of the elicitation process to go a little faster? In this post, we'll look at why even when we're listening to our stakeholders, they might not think we're really listening and find it necessary to repeat and clarify their important
- [8 Ways to Be Less Irritating and Minimize Follow-Up Questions After Requirements Meetings](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/minimize-follow-up-questions/) - Do you find yourself thinking up questions after a requirements meeting that you wish you would have thought to ask? Are your stakeholders frustrated because you come back again and again with more questions? Would you like to know how to approach discussions about the requirements to minimize this sort of back and forth and
- [How to Build Confidence](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/building-confidence/) - Michelle Swoboda shares some confidence-building tips for new BAs in this article.
- [3 Tips for Effective Virtual Meetings](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/effective-virtual-meetings/) - Many business analysts are finding themselves working from home right now and needing to elicit requirements and conduct virtual meetings. If you've been historically used to working in-person, this can be a huge shift. In this video, I share 3 quick tips for being more effective, and why virtual meetings are a huge opportunity to
- [How to Excel as an Introverted Business Analyst](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/introverted-business-analyst-personality/) - Do you have an introverted personality as a business analyst and you are wondering how to best leverage your personality to excel at your work? Or perhaps you think because you are introverted, you are somehow held back from success?As an introverted business analyst personality, you might find it difficult to add value because you
- [3 Tips for Minimizing Requirements Changes](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/minimize-requirements-changes/) - We know that one of the ways we add value as a business analyst is through reducing rework and requirements churn. We get everyone on the same page about what DONE means, and minimize unnecessary requirements changes. What do we do if stakeholders keep changing their requirements? How can we ever be done? And how
- [10 Ways to Communicate More Effectively on IT Projects](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/10-lessons-in-effective-it-communication/) - Effective communication is a core business analyst competency. Read 10 lessons to improve communication and build better relationships with your stakeholders.
- [How Do I Know If I'm Qualified To Be a Business Analyst?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/how-do-i-know-if-im-qualified-to-be-a-business-analyst/) - Are you exploring a career in as a business analyst? Do you find yourself wondering if your skills and experience are relevant to a business analyst role? Would you be interested in learning about how qualified you are to be a business analyst? We're going to talk about how to know if you are qualified
- [How to Get Your Organization to Create a BA Role (Just For You!)](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/create-new-business-analyst-role/) - Many on the path to starting business analyst careers find themselves in organizations with no business analyst role. In this situation, the question becomes, do I need to seek a new BA job outside my organization or can I create a BA role right here? One of the many paths into your first BA role
- [Requirements Estimation: How to Create a Business Analyst Timeline](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/how-to-create-a-business-analyst-timeline/) - Here's a scenario you may have run into: You receive a short request from a stakeholder about a new project. It's been given top priority by your manager and so it's the next project you'll begin looking into. Before you can even schedule the first meeting with the business sponsor to get some more
- [Mental Fitness for Business Analysts](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/mental-fitness/) - Do you ever feel like you are holding yourself back from your full potential in your career and relationships? The concept of mental fitness is all about our ability to deal with life’s challenges big and small, with positive emotions (like empathy, compassion, creativity, curiosity) instead of a negative emotions (like fear, anxiety, shame, and
- [How to Conduct a Requirements Review](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/requirements-review/) - A requirements review can save your project from many misunderstandings and mishaps. Here's how to complete an efficient and effective review.
- [How to Gain Funding for Training Opportunities](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/funding-for-training/) - The best business analysts consistently update and upgrade their skills, to add even more value to their organization and achieve better business outcomes. As an online provider of training to business analysts, one of the most frequently asked questions we receive is how to gain funding for training. While many of our participants invest in
- [The Agile Business Analyst: 4 Crucial Strategies for Success](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/agile-business-analyst/) - Many business analysts feel like their role is not needed in agile. We hear that agile teams don’t want “requirements” and so we assume they don’t want business analysts! Nothing could be further from the truth. Here’s exactly why agile teams need business analysts. For those who like to read instead of watch, here’s
- [Starting a New Business Analyst Job – 5 Things to Do First](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/new-business-analyst-job/) - When you are starting a new business analyst job, it’s an exciting time, but it can also be nerve-racking. Will you be expected to hit the ground running, and if so, what does that mean? If you are learning the role from scratch, how do you make sure that you are the best BA you
- [Why You  Are Getting Interviews But Not an Offer for a Business Analyst Job: Natalie Fisher](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/natalie-fisher/) - Today we meet Natalie Fisher, a career mindset coach, who explains why you may be getting job interviews, but no job offers. Natalie has helped hundreds of people get unreasonable job offers that they originally didn’t believe they could get. In this short discussion, you’ll discover how to: Give yourself proper credit for the work
- [5 Business Analyst Nicknames](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/5-business-analyst-nicknames/) - No matter that we business analysts get labeled by an almost dizzying array of job titles, we also can get some fancy nicknames. In the spirit of keeping it light this week, let’s look at a few of the nicknames business analysts have been given over the years. Colombo (the detective from the television show)
- [How to Protect the Emotional Investment You Make in Your BA Work](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/emotionally-invested-work/) - As a business analyst, it’s not uncommon for me to get way over-invested emotionally in my projects and my work. I’m guessing a lot of you have a similar challenge. In today’s world, we are so connected, that it is really difficult to break away from work – physically, mentally, and emotionally. I used to
- [Do You Define the Business Need? (BABOK 5.1)](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/ba-stories-do-you-define-the-business-need-babok-5-1/) - Defining the business need is one of the core tasks of business analysis and is a critical input to many aspects of developing requirements.
- [How to Avoid 7 Common Workshop Pitfalls](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/how-to-avoid-7-common-workshop-pitfalls/) - In this article, Adrian Reed describes 7 common workshop pitfalls, and how to avoid them
- [How to Reach Across Organizational Boundaries to Create a More Successful Project](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/making-it-work-between-business-and-it-ignoring-the-rules-of-analyst-ownership-to-reach-across-boundaries/) - Whether the business analyst reports to a business or IT-side manager, they are responsible for reaching across department boundaries to create a clear understanding.
- [What Does Success Look Like?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/what-does-success-look-like/) - So often in my work with new business analysts, we have a conflict of perspective. I see someone as successful (say because they had discovered that in their list of transferable skills, they were well-qualified for a variety of business analyst positions) and that person would not see themselves as successful (say because they didn’t have
- [Working from Home as a Business Analyst - Coaching Session Replay](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/work-from-home-business-analyst/) - With one company after another announcing mandatory work-from-home policies with the COVID-19 events, you might be working from home this week. Many professionals in our community have never worked from home before or facilitated a meeting remotely. This can bring up a lot of fear and uncertainty in an already uncertain time. I, along with
- [Finding Confidence in Her Value as a Business Analyst: Kira Judge](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/confidence-in-value-kira-judge/) - It's my honor today to introduce you to Kira Judge. Kira was a participant in the Spring 2019 Session of The Business Analyst Blueprint®. In this interview, she shares her journey to finding her confidence in a relatively new business analysis role and how she shows up as a leader to ensure she's solving the
- [Getting Out From Under a Never-Ending To-Do List: Kenji F.](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/kenji-case-study/) - Maybe you get an incredible amount of work done, but it never feels like enough. Perhaps your to-do list is always growing, no matter how hard you work or how many hours you put in. Maybe you are drowning under the burden of managing your career, being there for your family, and just want a
- [A simple flip to help you achieve your dreams](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/achieving-dreams/) - We all have dreams we want to achieve. But often we allow our limiting beliefs to get in the way of taking action to achieve our dreams. Here's a quick way to flip the reasons why you think you can't achieve your dream and bake them right into your goal – so you consciously build
- [The Career Trajectory of a Senior Business Analyst: an Interview with Disha Trivedi, CBAP](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/disha-trivedi/) - I'm so honored to share this interview with you today. I've known Disha Trivedi almost since the inception of Bridging the Gap. She's been a course participant and we both completed our CBAP certification around the same time (and while pregnant with our first daughters). What's more, Disha Trivedi is one of our instructors at
- [How to Anchor In Your Career Goals](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/anchors/) - In September 2018, our family evacuated for Hurricane Florence. We are so grateful to be home safe and sound, and dealing with just minimal damage. So many lost everything. I finally had a chance to capture a few reflections on the experience, and some of the positive anchors I put in place to help keep
- [The Inner Game of Succeeding as a Business Analyst](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/inner-game-ba/) - Succeeding as a business analyst takes more than just knowing all the right questions and techniques. It also requires getting your mindset right – this is what is called the inner game. I also share how certifications really can help you with your inner game, when you approach them with the right mindset. For
- [Your Organization Needs You to Step Up](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/your-organization-needs-you-to-step-up/) - Business analysts create positive change, make our organizations more efficient, and help us add more value to our customers. If you’ve been frustrated by your lack of opportunity in your BA career, this is the message you’ve been waiting for.
- [Helping Business Analysts Survive and Thrive Through the Pandemic](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/business-analysts-pandemic/) - I'm writing this post on May 26, 2020. It was just over 2 months ago that the U.S. shut down international flights and schools started being cancelled country-wide due to COVID-19. For the first few weeks, I was in a state of shock, fear, and denial. I had scheduled an impromptu open coaching session with
- [What a Confident Business Analyst Looks Like: Diana Sofariu’s Successes as a BA Consultant](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/diana-sofariu-case-study/) - Diana went from lacking confidence to taking being recognized for her confidence with opportunities to train new business analysts and get her presented to her organization’s most challenging client. Watch to learn how Diana: Reframed her interconnection of “smart” and “quick.” Received commendation from her practice lead for being more confident. Learned to handle the fear
- [From Software Developer to Business Analyst via an Internal Promotion](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/software-developer-to-business-analyst/) - Wendy Stookesberry created momentum in her business analyst career by volunteering to do a business analysis task. She got noticed as someone who went above and beyond and one BA task led to another and then another. She has also explored internal options and discovered that her management is open to creating a new BA role
- [4 Strategies to Manage Information Overload as a New Business Analyst](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/information-overload-ba/) - Business analysts will often find themselves in “information overload” mode. On a new project, with new stakeholders, in a new business domain, it’s not uncommon to be on the receiving end of new terminology, new tasks, and new information about everything from business processes to how a specific system works. It’s easy to get overwhelmed.
- [Bridging the Gap welcomes 2 new instructors to the team!](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/bridging-the-gap-new-instructors/) - In all the hustle and bustle of starting the Fall 2021 session of The Business Analyst Blueprint® certification program and opening up early registration for the Spring 2022 session, I neglected to announce our two newest instructors. (By the way, if you aren’t on the waitlist yet for the Spring 2022 session, you totally should
- [What is the Difference Between a Business Analyst and a Systems Analyst?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/difference-between-a-business-analyst-and-systems-analyst/) - What is the difference between the systems analyst profession and business analyst and business systems analyst professions? How does my title impact my role?
- [3 Diagrams to Add to Your Business Requirements Document](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/business-requirements-document-diagram/) - Do you create a traditional Business Requirements Document to capture your business and/or functional requirements? Adding a few diagrams to your BRD can make it more impactful and easier to understand. In this video, I demo 3 different diagrams that can easily be added to your BRD. And while a full-text transcript is available, you’ll
- [42 Reasons To Start a Business Analyst Career](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/42-reasons-to-consider-starting-a-business-analyst-career/) - Is pursuing a business analysis career worth it to you? Let's explore the reasons it could be the best decision you ever make.
- [8 Business Analyst Resume Secrets You Need to Know (Especially If You Don't Have the BA Job Title)](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/8-business-analyst-resume-secrets-you-need-to-know-especially-if-dont-have-the-ba-job-title/) - Laura Brandenburg shares secrets to showcasing your BA qualifications on your resume, even if you've never held the job title of business analyst.
- [How to Get Started as an Entry-Level Business Analyst](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/entry-level-business-analyst/) - Here at Bridging the Gap, we help mid-career professionals start business analyst careers. But we receive a lot of questions from recent college graduates looking for entry-level business analyst positions, and so I recorded this short video to walk you through your career options. Look for the small handful of employers in any local area
- [Restarting Your Career After a Career Break](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/career-break/) - One challenge I see a lot of people breaking into the business analysis field face is how to get back into the role after a career break. You may have taken a career break for an extended maternity leave, to care for an aging parent, or simply to travel the world. The good news is
- [Black Lives Matter – A Message From Laura](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/black-lives-matter/) - I feel like I’m a bit late in sharing this message. I’m always one to respond rather than react. And I mean what I say. As I’ve mentioned in previous messages, I’ve been on a bit of a journey of expanding my self-awareness and really understanding the issues when it comes to this inflection point
- [I Survived the Layoffs…Now What?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/survived-layoffs/) - As we see increased unemployment, today’s organizations are figuring out how to do more with less resources. If you have survived a layoff, or even if you are dealing with increased organizational pressures to deliver more with less to survive these challenging times, you might find yourself grateful for the paycheck. But also overworked, overwhelmed,
- [How to Articulate Your Transferable Business Analysis Skills Across Industries](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/transfer-business-analysis-skills-industries/) - It’s no secret that we’re facing record unemployment. And I’ve heard many stories of those in our community being laid off or furloughed, and now facing a flooded job market and wondering if and how their skills are relevant in this new world. Finding your next job opportunity might mean changing industries, sectors, or domains
- [What Real Job Security Looks Like Right Now](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/job-security/) - These times have certainly shifted our perceptions of security. What felt so certain – so secure – a few months ago, feels anything but today. This is actually a huge opportunity to see the truth of where our security lies, and that’s what today’s video is about. To learn more about the BA role
- [How to Focus When You Are Working from Home](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/focus-working-from-home/) - So many are working from home right now, and it can be a challenge to focus on “heads down” type of work. I share 3 concrete strategies for staying focused as well as look at the bigger picture of why it might be so hard to focus right now, and what you can learn from
- [The BA Essentials to be Focusing on Right Now](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/ba-essentials-focusing-now/) - There is no doubt that these are challenging times and a lot of people in our community are facing hardships right now. But there is also an immense amount of opportunity. Organizations need business analysts now more than ever. In this video, I share the key business analysis essentials you need to be focusing on
- [What this Pandemic Shut Down Means for You and Your Business Analyst Career](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/what-this-pandemic-shut-down-means-for-you-and-your-business-analyst-career/) - There's no doubt that these are challenging times and a lot of people in our community are facing hardships right now. But there is also an immense amount of opportunity. Organizations need business analysts now more than ever. If you've been waiting to take the next step in your business analyst career, the door is
- [Into a BA Leadership Role with Expertise in Salesforce.com: Toni V. Martin](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/ba-leadership-salesforce/) - Toni V. Martin started her career in marketing and started developing a specialty in Salesforce.com, a business application that automates and streamlines sales business processes. After taking the BA Essentials Master Class, Toni quickly moved into a BA leadership role. She now runs her own company helping Salesforce.com BAs and is a Bridging the Gap
- [Getting Her Confidence Back After a Career Break and Into a High-Level Business Analyst Consulting Role: Julie Ayres](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/confidence-career-break-julie-ayres/) - If you've ever faced a career break, you know how it can shake your confidence. Julie Ayres, from Perth in Western Australia, has spent the last few years consulting as a business analyst and overseeing high-profile ERP projects. But in 2017, she was ready to settle for a project coordinator role. All because she had
- [How Business Analysis Can Help a Non-Profit Organization: Emily Tom and the Ottawa IIBA BA-Blitz](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/ba-in-non-profit/) - Today, it’s my honor to introduce you to Emily Tom, of the Ottawa IIBA chapter, and organizer of their first “BA Blitz” – a hack-a-thon type of event where 21 local business analysts of all career levels used business analysis techniques to find creative solutions to the organization’s most pressing business problems. You'll learn: How
- [How to Figure Out the Next Step in Your Career](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/next-step/) - Wondering what the next step is in your career? Overwhelmed by all the options and feeling stuck? Here are 2 quick questions that will help you get more clarity about what your next step looks like.
- [How to Land Paid Contract Work as a Business Analyst with a Software Background: Todd Fleming](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/todd-fleming/) - Today I'd like to share Todd Fleming's success story with you. Todd is from Somers Montana, which is near Kalispell, Montana - a beautiful area of the United States I hope to visit someday! Todd has a long background in developing and designing software and is now a business analyst. Listen in (or read below)
- [How to Up-Level to a Senior BA Role: Munzolli Tower's Success Story](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/munzolli-tower/) - Today, I’d like to share a course participant success story with you. Munzolli Tower, from the New Jersey area, is a business analyst with a business background. During the Spring 2019 session of The Business Analyst Blueprint®, he interviewed for and receive an internal promotion to Senior Business Analyst within a new department in his
- [Are You Too Old to Be a Business Analyst?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/older-workers-ba/) - Today we’re touching a really sensitive topic – your age and how it impacts you as a business analyst. Almost every week, we receive a question around, “Am I too old to be a business analyst?” I always say no, you are not too old – because I believe with my whole heart that anyone
- [Successful Business Analysis Consulting – Interview with Karl Wiegers](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/karl-wiegers-consulting/) - Today we meet Karl Wiegers, author of 11 books (including Successful Business Analysis Consulting) and he shares loads of wisdom with us from his 30+ years as a business analyst consultant. Watch or read to learn: How Karl made the shift from corporate to consultant. The differences between being a corporate employee and a consultant.
- [Amelia Kram McHenry - From Informal BA to BA Lead making $90K/year](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/amelia-kram-mchenry/) - When Amelia joined The Business Analyst Blueprint® in January 2018, she had the 'business analyst' job title but not the responsibilities. She even had to volunteer outside her actual work just to complete the program and be able to apply all the business analysis techniques you learn in The Blueprint. Less than a year later, Amelia started
- [Annette Richards: From Senior BA Lead to BA Manager, By Gaining Confidence in Her Skills](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/annette-richards/) - Today we meet Annette Richards, who was in a senior business analyst lead role when she joined The Business Analyst Blueprint®. And, as she says, she knew more than she thought she knew. But it didn't matter because she felt like she had a "gap" that was holding her back. With the increased confidence that
- [Thomas Clarke Goes From Research Assistant to Business Analyst in Just a Few Months](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/thomas-clarke-case-study/) - Today we meet Thomas Clarke who transformed his career from data entry to research assistant to business analyst! Thomas leveraged his participation in the BA Essentials Master Class from Bridging the Gap to learn how to apply more structure to his work, and engage with more confidence. In this case study, Thomas reveals lots of
- [What's one challenge you are facing in your business analyst career?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/what-challenge-are-you-facing/) - If you could solve one challenge in your business analyst career, what would it be? What’s holding you back from more success? Tell me where you are at in your career by leaving a comment below, and let me know what the challenge is and I’ll do my best to help you out! (This is
- [How to Handle Organizational Change and Get What You Want Out of Your Business Analyst Career](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/organizational-change/) - When organizational change (or any sort of external industry factor) looms, it can feel like our career paths are constricted. The reality is that when you know this one specific thing, you’ll see these changes as opportunities to grow and expand. A lot of the noise and spin will naturally start to quiet down. What
- [3 Ways to Find Cost-Effective Solutions to Business Problems](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/cost-effective-solutions/) - One way BAs add value is to find more cost-effective solutions to business problems, saving company time and resources in big projects where small changes might be just as effective. And even for larger projects, being sure the work that is being done actually adds value and eliminating a lot of the “fluff” that can
- [From Technical Recruiter to Business Analyst: Jack S. Michel Jr. Shares His Clear Path to Success](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/technical-recruiter-to-ba-jack-michel/) - I met Jack Michel while speaking at the Charlotte IIBA meeting. He introduced himself and let me know how Bridging the Gap had helped him go from his role as a technical recruiter to get his start in business analysis. We didn't have much time to talk, as he needed to get home to his
- [How to Structure a Business Analyst Team](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/business-analyst-team/) - This question came to us from our Facebook page. When you have multiple projects and multiple business analysts, how do you structure your team and work assignments? Like so much in BA, it depends. The best answer to this question has to come in the context of your organization.
- [What Tasks to Give to a New Business Analyst](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/business-analyst-tasks/) - This question comes to us from Marie, who is a business analyst manager and often has people in her organization approach her for help getting started in business analysis. She wanted to know how to find the right task, or first assignment, that will help increase their confidence and expand their capabilities.
- [How to Avoid Missing Software Requirements](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/how-to-avoid-missing-software-requirements/) - There are 2 primary reasons that business analysts miss requirements and I cover them in this video. Want to learn more? Watch this short video! And then register here for the free 3-part video training.
- [Secrets to Getting Started as a Business Analyst](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/secrets-to-getting-started/) - One day, I was headed back to my desk after a meeting and a senior business analyst stopped me in the hallway, inviting me to apply for a new position on the business analyst team. The thing is - this was NOT a chance meeting. I had taken specific actions that led to this outcome
- [Roshni Dominic Starts a Part-Time BA Role at the British Red Cross](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/roshni-dominic-blueprint-case-study/) - Today we meet Roshni Dominic. Roshni is located in the UK and participated in the 2017 session of The Business Analyst Blueprint®. Just a few weeks into the program, she turned her Support Analyst Role at the British Red Cross into a part-time Business Analyst role. Her business analysis responsibilities and capabilities have continued to
- [Are You Really a Business Analyst?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/really-a-business-analyst/) - Because we know how to analyze so well, we can analyze and criticize the work we do, and not really appreciate the skills we have. Are you really a business analyst? Yes, you are. Learn why today. For those who like to read instead of watch, here’s the full text of the video: Today, I
- [Trick or Treat](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/trick-or-treat/) - Trick or Treat! It’s Halloween here in the United States and so I decided to have a little fun with this week’s video. We’re looking at 3 “tricks” or issues that can trip us up as business analysts, and how we can reframe them as “treats.” A lot of issues are really blessings in disguise.
- [The Ripple Effect of Your Work as a Business Analyst](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/ripple-effect-ba/) - As business analysts, we find it really hard to communicate our value. And we often feel under-valued and under-appreciated. In reality, our ripple effect is huge. You know when you throw a stone in a pond and there are ripples and ripples of water that flow out from that one stone falling into the water?
- [5 Ways to Get Your Business Analyst Department Recognized](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/central-business-analyst-team/) - A lot of business analysts face challenges getting recognized for their value, and as a result, get cut out of important project work. Instead of doing the critical work to solve bigger problems for their organization, they end up fighting just to stay involved, begging to get stakeholders to show up for their meetings, or,
- [How to Handle Push Back from Your Technology Team](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/push-back-from-technology-team/) - Today we're talking about a problem all business analysts face - what to do when the developers push back on your requirements. Here are a few key points: Re-frame what the developer means by "that's impossible"...everything is possible, given unlimited time and budget. Be sure to understand the true business need, and not present a business
- [From Operations to Business Analyst: Pieter Pretorius from South Africa](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/operations-to-business-analyst-south-africa/) - In this interview, Pieter Pretorius from South Africa shares how he went from an operations role to a business analyst, by leveraging an opportunity to be a subject matter expert on a project to get familiar with the techniques of business analysis. Pieter's story shows us how important that first step is - stepping up and
- [From a Finance Career to Business Analysis: Tracy Smitheram moves from Australia to New Zealand and starts her BA career](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/finance-career-to-business-analyst/) - In this interview, Tracy Smitheram shares her story of moving from a finance career to business analysis. One limiting belief that a lot of aspiring BAs get caught up in is the idea that in order to be a BA you have to break ties with your past career, or switch industries, or become an expert in many different
- [The Business Analyst Litmus Test](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/the-business-analyst-litmus-test/) - If you’ve been wondering whether or not a business analyst career is really right for you, I’ve got a quick and easy litmus test you can use to figure it out (above and beyond desiring the $90,000/year salary that is average for business analysts in the US.) The litmus test comes right from the best-selling
- [With Gratitude](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/with-gratitude/) - This coming Thursday is Thanksgiving here in the US. This is a time of year I always step back and reflect on what’s important to me and start looking forward to the year ahead. There are some changes coming to Bridging the Gap in 2017, and we’ll start to share more about those in December.
- [From Tax Auditor to Business Analyst - Damon](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/from-tax-auditor-to-ba/) - In this interview, Damon shares his story going from tax auditor to business analyst to software developer to business analyst again. I love how Damon's career path took a side road when he dipped his toes into a software development role, and that experience solidified his decision to continue in a business analyst career. Damon
- [How to Move from Software Developer to Business Analysis](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/software-developer-to-ba/) - A software developer is a professional who designs, creates, and customizes software applications to meet the business and functional requirements which are typically analyzed and specified by a business analyst. The Skills Software Developers Bring to a Business Analyst Position Because of their technical know-how and familiarity with software development, many people-oriented software developers opt
- [Why business analysts can be difficult to manage](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/why-you-are-difficult-to-manage/) - Way back before I was a BA consultant, and before I started offering BA training at Bridging the Gap, I was in a director-level role leading a department of business analysts, project managers, and quality assurance engineers. Even though I had several years of experience as a business analyst, just a few as a quality
- [Am I doing this correctly?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/am-i-doing-this-correctly/) - If you are relatively new to the business analyst profession, you might be wondering if you are actually doing things correctly. The business analysis process appears to be so nice and neat and linear until you are actually inside your first project. Then things tend to be much more messy, organic, and, well, unclear. I vividly
- [How to Resolve Feature Battles](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/how-to-resolve-feature-battles/) - Here’s a scenario you might face as a business analyst. The head of the customer service team, we’ll call her Joy, has submitted a project proposal to get a new field added to the contract form in your customer management application. The new field is “number of units sold.” Joy has been criticized for the
- [8 great things that happen when you have a project list](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/8-things-that-happen-when-you-have-a-project-list/) - We’ve been talking this week about how to get past barely managed chaos using a project portfolio management process. I won’t lie. It’s a lot of work to make this happen. You, personally, need to be motivated to make this year different than than the last. And your organizational leaders also need to understand what’s
- [Missed requirements: how to avoid this BA nightmare](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/missed-requirements-how-to-avoid-this-ba-nightmare/) - Author: Adriana Beal Some time ago, I received a call from an IT manager from a large NY-based company. This manager (let’s call him John) wanted my help in Phase 2 of a project whose first phase had experienced serious cost overruns. The purpose of the project was to customize an off-the-shelf content management system
- [From Liberal Arts Degree to Business Analysis: Hyun Woo](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/from-liberal-arts-degree-to-ba/) - I'm so grateful to Hyun Woo (called "Woo") for sharing with us today his two-year journey into business analysis. He's living proof that there is always opportunity to build new business analysis experiences, and that you can snowball one experience into another to build up a solid business analyst resume. Also, I find it inspiring that
- [Quick tips for managing requirements issues](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/tips-for-managing-requirements-issues/) - Today we’re wrapping up our series going into a little more detail on the things I would have liked to have known before I started my business analyst career with an article about how to manage requirements issues professionally. Taking ownership of the issues that naturally come up as part of the requirements process prevents
- [4 steps to finalize a requirements document](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/4-steps-to-finalize-a-requirements-document/) - One of the things that I wish I’d known when I started out as a business analyst was I would need to take deliberate steps to ensure my stakeholders truly got what they wanted and needed out of the requirements. As requirements authors and analyzers, it’s really easy to get so wrapped up in the
- [4 ways to set clearer expectations](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/4-ways-to-set-clearer-expectations/) - If you like the hit comedy show The Office (American version), you might remember when the new boss asks Jim to complete a “rundown.” Not knowing what a rundown is, Jim spends a lot of energy worrying, but not nearly enough energy clarifying. In the end, he faxes out a document, having no idea if
- [4 things I would have liked to have known before I started my BA career](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/4-things-i-would-have-liked-to-have-known-before-i-started-my-ba-career/) - During my first months as a business analyst, life was filled with a sort of inner turmoil. Even though I had books on how to write requirements documents, had received individual mentoring on putting together use cases, and had a trusted set of templates to follow, there was something uncertain about how the business analysis
- [From IT Application Development to Business Analyst, After a 2 Year Break (Sarika)](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/it-application-development-to-ba/) - Today we meet Sarika, who transitioned into business analysis after starting her career as an IT Application Developer and taking a career break of 2 years to raise her child. What I like most about Sarika's story is that she was able to dig deep into her transferable business analysis skills and confidently bring them
- [Behind-the-Scenes in Business Analysis, Part 3: How to Survive a Project When Everything Goes Wrong](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/behind-the-scenes-in-business-analysis-part-3/) - Welcome to part 3 of our 5-part Behind-the-Scenes in Business Analysis series where I’ll walk you through how I've handled some of my most interesting business analysis projects using the business analysis process. Part 3 – where you get to learn how to survive – with grace and dignity – when everything around is looking very, very
- [Behind-the-Scenes in Business Analysis, Part 2: How to Recover from Newbie Mistakes](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/behind-the-scenes-in-business-analysis-part-2/) - Welcome to part 2 of our 5-part Behind-the-Scenes in Business Analysis series where I’ll walk you through how I've handled some of my most interesting business analysis projects using the business analysis process. Part 2 - where you'll learn why more time for analysis is not always a luxury, and how to engage new stakeholders even when it
- [Behind-the-Scenes in Business Analysis (5-Part Series)](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/behind-the-scenes-in-business-analysis-series/) - Welcome to the 5-part Behind-the-Scenes in Business Analysis series where I’ll walk you through how I've handled some of my most interesting business analysis projects using the business analysis process.
- [Behind-the-Scenes in Business Analysis, Part 1: The Project Where I Didn't Get My Way](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/behind-the-scenes-in-business-analysis-part-1/) - Welcome to part 1 of our 5-part Behind-the-Scenes in Business Analysis series where I’ll walk you through how I've handled some of my most interesting business analysis projects using the business analysis process. Part 1 - the project where I didn't get my way, but I learned a lot about how to collaborate with other
- [From Sales Support to Quality Assurance to Business Analysis (Martin Pakpahan)](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/sales-support-to-business-analysis/) - Martin Pakpahan started his career in Sales Support and over the course of nearly 6 years worked his way into a business analysis position. One thing I love about Martin's story is that he focused on the combination of delivering value, helping others, and finding fulfillment in his work. And this magic combination led him to
- [3 Reasons to Data Model (Even If You Can Design Databases)](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/3-reasons-to-data-model/) - If you come from a technical background, you might be wondering if you can skip data modeling and go right to designing and implementing the database. While you could theoretically bypass any of the data modeling techniques, there are still very good reasons for using them. In this article, we'll look at how data models are
- [Getting Started with Data Modeling (10-Part Series)](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/getting-started-with-data-modeling/) - Here are 10 articles to help you get started with data modeling. These are perfect if you want to brush up on data modeling or get fresh ideas to improve your business analyst work.
- [What Software Tools Business Analysts Use for Data Modeling](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/data-modeling-software-tools/) - Are you ready to get started with data modeling, but wondering what software tools you'll need? Have you seen some of the more complicated-looking models and wonder how you can create these with your business analysis tool set? In this article, we'll discuss the types of tools used to generate different types of data models,
- [When it Works to Create a Data Map and a Data Dictionary at the Same Time](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/data-map-dictionary-same-time/) - You might be wondering if you need both a data dictionary and a data mapping, or you might want to make these two deliverables part of one simultaneous analysis activity. Data mapping is a special kind of data dictionary, so the two techniques are very closely related. In a certain set of circumstances, they can be
- [How to Data Model Without Getting Too Technical (or the what and the how)](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/data-model-not-too-technical/) - Although data modeling techniques can look technical, you don't need to know database programming to complete useful versions of the models from a business-facing perspective. Instead, business analysts create data models that describe the what (of business requirements), which can be expanded by database designers to cover the how (of technical design). In this article, we'll look
- [4 Data Modeling Techniques that Solve Tricky Project Challenges](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/data-modeling-techniques/) - Business analysts solve tricky, icky, sticky project challenges using data modeling techniques. There are 4 data modeling techniques you should get to know as a business analyst, so they can become part of your BA toolbox. (By the way, if you are looking to learn more about data modeling, be sure to check out our Free
- [What is a Data Dictionary?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/data-dictionary/) - A Data Dictionary, also called a Data Definition Matrix, provides detailed information about the business data, such as standard definitions of data elements, their meanings, and allowable values. While a conceptual or logical Entity Relationship Diagram will focus on the high-level business concepts, a Data Dictionary will provide more detail about each attribute of a
- [When to Use Email to Answer Requirements Questions](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/when-to-use-email-to-answer-requirements-questions/) - Today let’s talk about email, specifically emailing to discover information related to requirements questions. You as the business analyst sit down and write a carefully crafted email with a very thoughtful question and send it off to your very busy stakeholder for an answer. This email is likely to be met with one of the
- [A Historical Look at the Business Analysis Profession (2009-2014)](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/a-historical-look-at-the-business-analysis-profession-2009-2014/) - While business analysis as a collection of activities has been around for decades, preceding even the introduction of the International Institute of Business Analysis™ (IIBA®) in 2004, business analysis, as a discipline, has evolved significantly during the last 5 years. Because looking back can help us look forward with more clarity and confidence, in this article
- [5 Business Analyst Time-Wasters](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/5-business-analyst-time-wasters/) - At work, how you invest your time can lead to significant business analysis career success ... or equally significant failure. No matter how disciplined your organization, there will always be time crunches and there will always be value in getting more done well and in less time. As business analysts, we need to be wary of
- [How to Succeed at Your First Project in a New Company: Emily Kong](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/first-project-new-company/) - You may remember Emily Kong. She recently shared her story of turning from IT Analyst to Business Analyst. She was kind enough to check in with us again and let us know about her first two months in her new business analyst job. Read Emily's story to learn what it's like to work in a
- [How to Use Feedback to Become an Expert in Requirements Documentation](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/how-to-use-feedback-to-become-an-expert-in-requirements-documentation/) - Author: Adriana Beal Participants who complete Crafting Better Requirements may have very different educational and professional backgrounds, but they all have one thing in common: they leave the course with a unique set of strategies to successfully communicate requirements to the various audiences of their requirements documents. Let's look at the improvements a few selected
- [Starting a New Business Analyst Job (Part 4): Your First 60 Days](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/new-business-analyst-job-first-60-days/) - You got the business analyst job, now what? Your first few months in a new business analyst job are extremely important. It's when you lay the foundation for successful, long-term employment. It's important to build credibility with new people, learn about your organization, and make a solid contribution. You also want to begin to complete
- [Starting a New Business Analyst Job (Part 3): How to Make the Most of Your First Week](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/new-business-analyst-job-first-week/) - You got the business analyst job, now what? By the end of the first week, you want to be able to demonstrate you've made at least some forward progress towards being an effective contributor, but what exactly does that look like? In this article, we'll look at how to make the most of your first
- [Starting a New Business Analyst Job (Part 2): How to Prepare for Your First Day](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/new-business-analyst-job-prepare-for-first-day/) - You got the business analyst job, now what? The first day of a new job can be exciting but also nerve-wracking. Will you be expected to hit the ground running and, if so, what does that mean? Even if you are very experienced as a business analyst, this organization, projects and people are all new
- [Starting a New Business Analyst Job (Part 1): What To Expect on Your First Day](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/new-business-analyst-job-first-day/) - You got the business analyst job, now what? The first day of a new job can be exciting but also nerve-wracking. Will you be expected to hit the ground running and, if so, what does that mean? Even if you are very experienced as a business analyst, this organization, projects and people are all new
- [3 (and only 3) Reasons to Use BPMN (Business Process Modeling Notation)](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/bpmn-business-process-modeling-notation/) - Business Process Modeling Notation (BPMN) is a standardized notation for creating visual models of business or organizational processes. Those new to BPMN understandably find it overwhelming. There are flow objects, connecting objects, swim lanes, and artifacts. And that's just the categories within the notation. Overall, there are over 40 different elements, each with rules about when it
- [Diary of a CBAP Seeker: Passing the CBAP Exam the Second Time](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/cbap-exam-second-time/) - Editor's Note: I'm honored to have long-time Bridging the Gap author Doug Goldberg back to finish the CBAP Diary he started sharing here back in 2010. Congrats to Doug!! A long time ago, back when I first started working with Laura and Bridging the Gap, I sat for the CBAP exam and failed. In December
- [3 Signs You Shouldn't Be Writing a Use Case](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/you-shouldnt-be-writing-a-use-case/) - With all the craze about use cases lately, you'd think that no collection of requirements documentation would be complete without at least one, and perhaps several, use cases. The reality is that while use cases are an extremely useful requirements tool and one that just about every BA should have in their tool belt, there
- [Next Generation Business Analysts - The Opportunities In Store For You (Insights from BBC 2013)](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/next-generation-business-analysts/) - The 2013 Building Business Capability Conference, sponsored by the International Institute of Business Analysis™ (IIBA®), proved to be a setting where the future of business analysis was discussed not only with enthusiasm, but also with a strong tie to reality. Case studies abounded. Real-world challenges were addressed head-on. And most importantly, opportunities for growth and
- [The Business Analyst Job Search Process: 5 Steps to Getting Hired](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/business-analyst-job-search/) - Are you looking for a new business analyst job or your first business analyst job? Are you worried about getting hired for the right type of position? Or perhaps you are wondering why your job search is taking longer than it seems like it should be? Let's look at what you can expect from your business
- [Here are 13 Jobs that Can Lead to a Business Analyst Job](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/13-jobs-that-lead-to-a-business-analyst-job/) - While nearly any job can lead you to a business analyst job, some jobs enable you to move you more quickly towards your business analyst career goals. Since you can build BA experience without having the BA job title, a transitional role can be an opportunity to maintain or grow your current income stream while also
- [How to Put Some Spunk Into Your Requirements](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/how-to-put-some-spunk-into-your-requirements/) - Picture me: young, fresh, and disciplined...leading a very boring requirements meeting where we're poring over a very laborious requirements document. This was way back when I was too new, too green, to know better. I had a template, a big one in fact. It had 20, maybe even 30 sections in it. And my discipline
- [7 Questions That Will Get Even More Information Out of Your Stakeholders](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/7-questions-that-will-get-even-more-information-out-of-your-stakeholders/) - We put a lot of burden on ourselves as business analysts to get as much information as possible as early as possible in the process. The questions we think to ask are critical to getting the right information. But every once in awhile, we find ourselves needing to ask a question and not having one
- [How to Discover Your Transferable Business Analyst Skills](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/how-to-discover-your-transferable-business-analyst-skills/) - Earlier this week I addressed the question of how to determine if you are qualified for a business analyst job and noted that the most important thing you can do is understand is your transferable business analyst skills. I've been getting a lot of questions about how exactly to determine what your skills are. In this
- [5 Processes Worth Mapping](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/processes-worth-mapping/) - Business process maps are a growing area within business analysis. But many BAs are cut out from the business process. Others of you aren't yet in a business analyst role, but would like to get experience with this technique so you are more qualified to fill a business analyst role. Business processes are everywhere and
- [Do You Make These Job Interview Mistakes?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/the-most-dangerous-job-interview-mistake-you-can-make/) - Here's a not so uncommon scenario you might face during a business analyst job interview: Recruiter: Thanks for taking some time to meet with me today. I'm working with a client who needs a business analyst to fill in on a new project and hit the ground running. It's really important that they have experience working
- [Secrets of Successful Agile Analysis: How to Make Your Business Analysis Skills Indispensable](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/secrets-of-successful-agile-analysis-how-to-make-your-business-analysis-skills-indispensable/) - Are you exploring a business analysis career in an agile software development environment? Are you concerned about keeping your business analysis skills relevant in an increasingly agile world? Would you be interested in learning how you can evolve your business analysis skill set even if your organization has not yet embraced more agile practices? It's
- [5 Transferable Soft Skills That Will Catapult Your BA Career Forward](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/5-transferable-soft-skills-that-will-catapult-your-ba-career-forward/) - Many of the writers here at Bridging the Gap have written about using transferable skills to transition into a Business Analysis career. Laura Brandenburg’s theme is assisting people in starting and transitioning to Business Analysis. In her article, 5 Steps to Becoming a Business Analyst, Step Two is to identify transferable skills. In Building Critical Stakeholder
- [Help Your Stakeholders Leave Their Rank at the Door: 6 Workshop Levelers](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/help-your-stakeholders-leave-their-rank-at-the-door-6-workshop-levelers/) - In workshops, people may be afraid to raise or discuss "provocative" points. How can a good facilitator level the playing field?
- [How to Keep Your Elicitation Session From Going Off Track](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/how-to-keep-your-elicitation-session-from-going-off-track/) - Picture yourself leading a requirements meeting early in the project. You show up 5 minutes early, get yourself settled, spread out your notes, and fire up your laptop. You review your agenda so it's top of mind. The clock strikes the top of the hour. The first attendee of three wanders in, checking their smartphone
- [Building Business Analysis Experience as a Software Developer](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/building-ba-experience-software-developer/) - Dave's story shows us how a little persistence and creativity can go a long way. Dave's organization does not have a BA practice and he has many software development responsibilities to attend to, yet he has managed to expand his experience and begin qualifying himself for more BA roles. Dave Wolf is a software developer. In his
- [From Desktop Support Technician to Business Analyst: A Journey-in-Progress](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/my-journey-from-desktop-support-technician-to-business-analyst-rob-jowaisas/) - I'm very excited to share an "in progress" success story this week. Rob Jowaises has been very active in our Grow Your BA Career LinkedIn group and has graciously shared the ups and downs of his journey so far. I think an important take-away is that you don't have to make this transition all at
- [Turning an Business Systems Analyst Internship into a Job Offer](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/turning-an-internship-into-a-job-offer/) - Today we meet Neslon Colon, a Bridging the Gap reader who has made the transition to business systems analysis at a New York financial services firm after a twelve year background in the Air Force. Nelson has leveraged a combination of targeted education and making an impact during a summer internship to break into the
- [The Forgotten Art of Document Analysis: 8 Documents That Can Help You Ask All the Right Questions](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/the-forgotten-art-of-document-analysis-8-documents-that-can-help-you-ask-all-the-right-questions/) - In this article, Adrian Reed describes how Document Analysis can be a useful Business Analysis technique, particularly when stakeholder time is limited
- [The Second Ingredient That All Successful Business Analysts Possess](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/the-second-ingredient-that-all-good-business-analysts-possess/) - I've always been a big proponent of relationships and relationship building as the number one factor, at least in my view, for a successful analyst. They are critical to the work we do and require a significant amount of time and attention to finesse and hone. In my travels away from Bridging the Gap, I
- [Requirements Gathering vs. Elicitation](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/requirements-gathering-vs-elicitation/) - Do you refer to some of your business analysis activity as "requirements gathering"? Are you looking at BA jobs and seeing "requirements gathering" responsibilities and wondering what that looks like? And how do you reconcile this with the BABOK's use of "Elicitation" as a knowledge area name? Or perhaps you use the term with a
- [How to Present Yourself as Capable of Doing Requirements Specifications (Even If You've Only Created Informal Documentation)](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/how-to-present-yourself-as-capable-of-doing-requirements-specifications-even-if-youve-only-created-informal-documentation/) - Many new business analysts are confident in their communication and problem-solving skills but feel held back because they've only ever created informal documentation to serve a specific audience or project need. Are you confident in your ability to create formal requirements specifications just like a tried and true business analyst would? Let's look at how
- [The Tough Truth: Your Stakeholders Don’t Want a BA](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/the-tough-truth-your-stakeholders-dont-want-a-ba/) - Do stakeholders *really* want a BA anyway? Let's look at the BA value proposition from business stakeholders' perspectives.
- [5 Ways to End Analysis Paralysis on Your Next Business Process Model](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/5-ways-to-end-analysis-paralysis-on-your-next-business-process-model/) - Like writers complain of “writers block,” modelers often find themselves in “analysis paralysis.” When modeling a business process, analysis paralysis occurs when we get stuck on a model and are not able to finish it, or when we are not able to help facilitate a decision about how to implement or improve a business process.
- [Being a BA is Not for the Faint of Heart](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/not-for-feint-of-heart/) - You might hear others say that business analysts are difficult people. In fact, if you've been around for awhile, you've heard me say it. Are BAs difficult people? Or, to look at the question differently, how can business analysts, despite their best efforts, be difficult? Actually, the reverse is true. The least difficult of all
- [7 Signs You Are Making Progress Towards a BA Career](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/7-signs-you-are-making-progress-towards-a-ba-career/) - Career transitions can are full of uncertainty. You hit roadblocks; you work around them. You don't hear from anyone for months then you get 5 interviews in one week. You plug along adding value, getting very little feedback, and then seemingly out-of-the-blue you learn about a new internal opportunity. Anyone who has successfully made a
- [From Problem Solver to Business Analyst](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/problem-solver-to-business-analyst/) - TH (who prefers to remain anonymous), was able to demonstrate a pattern of progressively growing skills related to business analysis and qualify herself for a business analyst role on an agile team. TH worked in a variety of industries that all utilized her requirements elicitation and analysis skills, with a particular focus on solving organizational and
- [From Application Support Specialist to Business Analyst](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/application-support-to-business-analyst/) - I really like how Aniket leveraged working with a tool for business analysts into an opportunity to become a business analyst himself. This is the first time I've heard of this particular path, but it makes so much sense! Here's his story. Aniket Sharma was working as an implementation engineer in the telecom domain and then
- [Want to Take on a BA Task? 3 Things Your Boss Needs to Hear You Say](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/want-to-take-on-a-ba-task-3-things-your-boss-needs-to-hear-you-say/) - Talking to the boss can feel like a difficult conversation but it doesn't have to be. Learn how to stack the deck in your favor.
- [The Dwight Schrute School of Business Process Improvement](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/the-dwight-schrute-school-of-business-process-improvement/) - Laura explores how we might just learn a thing or two from The Office's Dwight about business process improvement.
- [How to Skip Right Past Entry-Level Business Analyst Positions](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/how-to-skip-right-past-entry-level-business-analyst-positions/) - In business analysis, your prior professional experience can make a big difference in where you start your career. Learn how your experience counts.
- [4 Surprising Reasons Your First Business Analyst Job Doesn't Turn Out Like You Expect](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/4-surprising-reasons-your-first-business-analyst-job-doesnt-turn-out-like-you-expect/) - Many new business analysts start their first job only to be disillusioned when it doesn't match up with their expectations of a business analysis role.
- [Landing a Business Analyst Job Just 7 Months Out of College](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/how-a-bridging-the-gap-reader-landed-a-business-analyst-job-just-7-months-out-of-college/) - I met Eric just last week at the Denver IIBA meeting. He has an amazing BA Career Transition story and I'm proud that we here at Bridging the Gap are a part of his success! Eric was kind enough to answer some questions for me and share what worked and what didn't. I think even
- [Don't Do These 7 Things When Getting Started as a BA](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/dont-do-these-7-things-when-deciding-to-pursue-a-business-analyst-career/) - If you are in the midst of choosing a business analysis career, be sure to avoid these 7 time-wasters!
- [Business Analysis: Best Practices for Success - An Interview with Steve Blais](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/business-analysis-best-practices-for-success-an-interview-with-steve-blais/) - Steve Blais is someone I often refer to in my presentations as "the consummate business analyst." We've met Steve before - I interviewed him in 2010 about the essence of business analysis. Since then, he's published a new book, Business Analysis: Best Practices for Success. And while I haven't finished the book yet, I'm really impressed with what
- [How to Answer Behavioral Interview Questions for a BA Job](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/behavioral-interview-questions-ba-job/) - In a business analyst job interview, you are very likely to get asked behavioral interview questions. In this post, we'll look at what a behavioral interview question is, why an interviewer asks these types of questions, and how to prepare to answer them. (By the way, I want to be sure you know that you can
- [What's the Difference Between Business Analysis and Business Development?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/help-a-ba-whats-the-difference-between-business-analysis-and-business-development/) - A reader asks: What is the difference between business analysis and business development? Michelle's answer: Business development is just that; the growth of new or existing business. It is usually associated with the sales team within an organization. Sales and marketing are responsible for growing existing business – so finding areas of customers that have
- [Let Your Stakeholders Know You Heard Them (BABOK 3.3, 3.4)](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/let-your-stakeholders-know-you-heard-them-babok-3-3-3-4/) - Learn why these 2 BABOK tasks, Document Elicitation Results and Confirm Elicitation Results are critical to the success of any project.
- [BA Stories: The Value of Reusable Requirements (BABOK 4.3)](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/the-value-of-reusable-requirements-babok-4-3/) - Do you maintain your requirements for re-use? If so, how? Learn more about the possibilities and consider whether you can add extra value to your project work.
- [Oh Where, Oh Where Does This Requirement Belong? (BABOK 7.2)](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/oh-where-oh-where-does-this-requirement-belong-babok-7-2/) - If Allocating Requirements isn't done by a BA, we might miss an opportunity to create more value for customers. BAs have a big role in the solution design.
- [How Do I Find a Business Analyst Mentor?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/find-business-analyst-mentor/) - Reader's Question: I have been working in the medical and spa industry for over 10 years. It seems every position I have involves some BA type duties from rewriting policy and procedure manuals to doing efficiency studies. I need to find a mentor to assist me in turning all this random experience into a BA
- [Good Things Come in Nice Packages (BABOK 4.4)](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/ba-stories-good-things-come-in-nice-packages-babok-4-4/) - In this article, Laura breaks down the BABOK task: Prepare Requirements Package, and gives tips on creating the perfect package for your stakeholders.
- [BA Stories: Business Analysts Plan to Plan (BABOK 2.3)](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/ba-stories-business-analysts-plan-to-plan-babok-2-3/) - I am a planner. I like to see what’s in front of me and understand what it will take to accomplish my objectives. I’d expect this is true of many business analysts. Our requirements are, in a sense, a plan for solving a business problem. But we also need to plan out how to create
- [The Business Analyst's Role in Designing the Solution (BABOK 7.1)](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/ba-stories-are-you-responsible-for-the-solution-babok-7-1/) - Laura Brandenburg shares her thoughts on the BABOK task called Assess Proposed Solution.
- [BA Stories: Mind the Gap – The Capability Gap (BABOK 5.2)](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/mind-the-gap-the-capability-gap-babok-5-2/) - Assess Capability Gaps is one of those tasks that we almost all do, but you may not be aware of it as a discrete task until you actually read the BABOK.
- [It’s Not “All Requirements” - Assumptions and Constraints Matter Too! (BABOK 6.4)](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/ba-stories-its-not-all-requirements-assumptions-and-constraints-matter-too/) - As BAs we very easily get wrapped up in our requirements. That is the bulk of our work – business requirements, stakeholder requirements, solution requirements, etc. Everywhere we look, requirements, requirements, requirements! However, in the midst of eliciting, analyzing, and specifying requirements, there is a context at play. One of these contexts is the business
- [A BABOK Journey](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/babok-journey/) - Join us on a journey through the BABOK (Business Analysis Body of Knowledge) by reading and sharing real business analysis stories.
- [The BABOK Might Not Be a Methodology, But the BA Still Needs One (BABOK 2.1)](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/the-babok-might-not-be-a-methodology-but-the-ba-still-needs-one-babok-2-1/) - Learn how planning the business analysis approach will set a mature business analyst apart from the crowd.
- [Laura's CBAP Journey: Looking back on the CBAP Exam Simulators](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/lauras-cbap-journey-looking-back-on-the-cbap-exam-simulators/) - A successful CBAP recipient compares two CBAP exam simulator options - Watermark Learning and BAMentor - in the context of passing the CBAP exam.
- [BA Stories: Evaluate Solution Performance (BABOK 7.6)](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/ba-stories-evaluate-solution-performance-babok-7-6/) - The purpose of this Evaluate Solution Performance (BABOK 7.6 - the last task included in the BABOK Guide) is: "Evaluate functioning solutions to understand the value they deliver and identify opportunities for improvement." This task involves understanding the business value devlivered by the solution and whether it is over- or under-performing, validating that value with
- [Laura's CBAP Journey: Putting a "C" in my "BAP" (Week 12, Part 2)](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/lauras-cbap-journey-putting-a-c-in-my-bap-week-12-part-2/) - I arrived at the exam center 30 minutes early. It was a beautiful Colorado fall day that felt more like late summer. The exam center was on a community college campus, so I was surrounded by young students and lots of energy. After confirming the location and logistics, I found a comfy seat in the
- [Laura's CBAP Journey: Today is the Day! (Week 12, Part 1)](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/lauras-cbap-journey-today-is-the-day-week-12-part-1/) - Just a quick post to ask you to send me good vibes. Today is the day I sit for the CBAP. Around 1 pm MST, I'll be at Red Rocks Community College here in Golden, Colorado, beginning the first of those 150 questions. Since the middle of last week, I've done a lot of last
- [What You Should Know About Emerging Technologies](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/how-to-stay-abreast-of-emerging-technologies/) - As a business analyst, an increased awareness of the latest emerging technologies might help you help your business meet new business needs.
- [Laura's CBAP Journey: Taking the Full Practice Exam (Week 11)](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/lauras-cbap-journey-taking-the-full-practice-exam-week-11/) - Up until this point, I've been taking sample CBAP exams by knowledge area. These are great because they help me determine if I understand a particular knowledge area or not. But they are obviously limited since I'm not being tested on a sequence of questions across multiple knowledge areas. This past week I took my first
- [Laura's CBAP Journey: The BABOK Makes So Much Sense When.... (Week 10)](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/lauras-cbap-journey-the-babok-makes-so-much-sense-when-week-10/) - Two weeks to go until exam day and in the nitty gritty of my BAMentor prep course (with my super-amazing instructor, Kym Byron). Last night we went over some of the key techniques in Requirements Analysis - data modeling, data flow diagrams, sequence diagrams, use cases, user stories, and the like. Some of this seemed
- [Laura's CBAP Journey: I'm Smart, Why Do I Feel So Stupid? (Week 9)](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/lauras-cbap-journey-im-smart-why-do-i-feel-so-stupid-week-9/) - I will try not to make this another rant. But the harsh truth is that I am frustrated. I'm a reasonably intelligent person. I have historically been a good test taker. Yet, CBAP preparation questions keep stumping me again and again. Most often it is not the material, which I have a generally good understanding
- [Are You Stretching Yourself Enough to Become a Great BA?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/are-you-stretching-yourself-enough-to-become-a-great-ba/) - Here's a note from one of our readers who has made an important career decision and is seeing the positive results of that decision. Laura, I wanted to let you know that your article on system knowing and BA competencies has been a critical article for me, as this both encouraged me to make a
- [Laura's CBAP Journey - Scheduling the Exam (Week 8)](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/lauras-cbap-journey-scheduling-the-exam-week-8/) - I can't believe it's been 8 weeks since I announced my decision to sit for the CBAP. Thanks to all of your support and encouragement, it's been an incredible journey so far. But now I am at the point where the rubber hits the road. Literally. About two weeks ago, I sent the check in
- [How Do I Extract Business Rules from Legacy Systems?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/help-a-ba-how-do-i-extract-business-rules-from-legacy-systems/) - We have two readers ask similar questions of our Help A BA! staff concerning extracting business rules from legacy systems; so let’s help them both out. Reader 1: As rules are mostly hardcoded and code walkthrough is too time consuming in mainframe systems, what is the best way to extract business rules from legacy systems
- [Laura's CBAP Journey: Settling into a Study Rhythm (Weeks 6/7)](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/lauras-cbap-journey-settling-into-a-study-rhythm-weeks-67/) - Laura shares her thoughts on settling into a study pattern and absorbing the information in the Elicitation Knowledge area of the BABOK.
- [Laura's CBAP Journey: Reading the Introduction to the BABOK (Week 5)](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/lauras-cbap-journey-reading-the-introduction-to-the-babok-week-5/) - I picked up the habit of skipping introductions in college. Most often college-edition novels and philosophical works, of which I read plenty, contained the editor's reaction to the text. It never made sense to me to read this before I had even read the book itself! So it's no surprise that I've bypassed a good
- [3 Ways to Get Feedback on Your BA Skills](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/3-ways-to-get-feedback-on-your-ba-skills/) - Sometimes our intentions behind our work differ from the way they are perceived by stakeholders. And while we'd like to think that our work's intrinsic quality and our business analysis skills are all that matters, the truth is that sometimes perceptions matter more than reality, especially when perceptions are wrong or career-damaging. Regardless, how others'
- [Laura's CBAP Journey: Finding My "Why" (Week 4)](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/lauras-cbap-journey-finding-my-why-week-4/) - Full Confession I was almost a complete slacker this week. I spent just an hour or two on Wednesday progressing against this week's goal, which was to work through (and maybe finish) the techniques section of the BABOK. At about 80 pages, this chapter is the longest. It also contains the real tactical gems that
- [How Do I Avoid Appearing Meek When Starting a New Job?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/help-a-ba-how-do-i-avoid-appearing-meek-when-starting-a-new-job/) - When starting a new job, perceptions matter. So what happens when our natural strengths to build relationships cause us to be perceived as meek?
- [Laura's CBAP Journey: The Difference Between Getting It and Being Exam-Ready (Week 3)](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/lauras-cbap-journey-the-difference-between-getting-it-and-being-exam-ready-week-3/) - On week 3 of my CBAP Journey, I submit my application and start using a CBAP exam simulator to test how well my absorption methods are working.
- [Laura's CBAP Journey: Finishing the Dreaded Work History Section (Week 2)](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/lauras-cbap-journey-finishing-the-dreaded-work-history-section-week-2/) - First I want to start out by saying a big thank you to everyone who left a comment on last week's post about starting my journey to becoming a CBAP. Your support and encouragement is over the top. I honestly had no idea that people would actually care about this journey and it feels amazing
- [Laura's CBAP Journey - Deciding to Go For It (Week 1)](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/lauras-cbap-journey-deciding-to-go-for-it/) - The first step to becoming a CBAP, well, deciding to go for it. I can't turn back now, I've told you I'm starting the CBAP journey.
- [How to be a good mentee](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/working-with-career-coach/) - Mentors are not rocket scientists. As a mentee, you'll get the most out of the mentor-mentee relationship if you have clear goals and help your mentor help you.
- [Why Terminology is Important](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/terminology-is-important/) - Defining terminology and asking questions about terms might be one of the most important things you do as a business analyst.
- [Why Writing a Software Requirements Specification is a Valuable Analyst Skill](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/why-writing-a-software-requirements-specification-is-a-valuable-analyst-skill/) - A Software Requirements Specification, a key deliverable to ensure software development projects meet business needs, is a valuable analyst skill.
- [Is There a Place for Business Analysis in a Non-Profit Organization?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/help-a-ba-is-there-a-place-for-business-analysis-in-a-non-profit-organization/) - I love my work in non-profit, but I'm exploring opportunities to become a business analyst. Is there a place for business analysis in a non-profit organization?
- [How Do I Approach Requirements for a Business Intelligence Project?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/help-a-ba-how-do-i-approach-requirements-for-a-business-intelligence-project/) - I'm working on a business intelligence project as a business analyst. I know there aren't any cookie cutter answers, but what all should I be thinking about?
- [Patience & Persistence Part 1: How I Moved from the HR Department to Business Analyst Intern](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/how-moved-from-the-hr-department-to-business-analyst-intern/) - Joan Davis came from the business side - a job in HR - and leveraged persistence, patience, and a dash of tenacity to make the case for becoming a BA intern.
- [How to Decide to Accept a Business Analyst Job Offer](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/business-analyst-job-offer-decision/) - I have a great BA job offer, but now I'm not so sure whether it's the right decision. How do I decide whether I should accept the job offer or not?
- [Does My Experience in Process Improvement Prepare Me to Be a Business Analyst?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/help-a-ba-should-i-move-from-process-improvement-to-business-analysis/) - Does a background in QA, process improvement, and CMMi prepare one to be a business analyst, even if no longer a "spring chicken"?
- [How to Write a Resume Summary for a Business Analyst Position](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/resume-summary-business-analyst-position/) - Is your resume summary or objective causing recruiters to throw aside your resume before they even evaluate your qualifications. Maybe. Learn why!
- [6 Simple Tips for Building a Professional Network](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/6-simple-tips-for-building-a-professional-network/) - Professional networking is highly beneficial, but can seem scary at times! Adrian Reed outlines 6 key tips to make it easier.
- [What Everybody Ought to Know About the BABOK](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/what-everybody-ought-to-know-about-the-babok/) - What you don't know might come back to haunt you someday! You might be surprised to learn that the BABOK is not a business analysis process.
- [Is Solution Architect a Good Career Path for a Business Systems Analyst?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/help-a-ba-is-solution-architect-a-good-career-path-for-a-business-systems-analyst/) - As a business analyst, what's the potential of considering solution architecture as a career path? Is this a better career move than business architect?
- [How Do You Get SAP Experience?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/help-a-ba-how-do-you-get-sap-experience/) - Reader Question: Some BA jobs require SAP experience, but how do you get it if you don't have it? Eric’s Response: Many BA job posts require applicants to have some kind of experience about specific business software, such as ERPs, CRMs or other specialized software. Although it can be a questionable requirement for a job
- [6 Tips to Keep Writing UAT Scripts Fun](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/writing-uat-scripts/) - UAT scripts can be the most boring part of a BA job, but with a few of Michelle's techniques you might be able to make them fun!
- [How a Lateral Career Move Can Accelerate Your BA Career](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/the-value-of-lateral-career-moves-for-business-analysts/) - New stakeholders, new systems, and new methodologies all provide the career-oriented business analyst with opportunities to move up by moving around.
- [From Software Developer in an Informal Environment to Business Analyst: Michiel Erasmus](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/software-developer-informal-to-business-analyst/) - Michiel Erasmus is the host of the Business Analyst Podcast and has recently found his first business analyst role. I'm honored to share his story with you -- the ups and the downs -- and I hope his story inspires you as you create your own path to business analysis. The Career Before Business Analysis
- [Is Project Management the Next Step in a Business Analyst Career?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/help-a-ba-is-project-management-the-natural-progression-of-the-ba-career-path/) - Reader question: Is it a trend that BAs see the project manager role as a natural progression of the BA career path? I have recently took on a role of a BA Lead and held career development sessions with my team. Often most of them cited becoming project managers as their long term goal. I
- [How Do I Move from IT Trainer to Business Analyst?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/how-do-i-move-from-it-trainer-to-business-analyst/) - Are you trying to move from a role as an IT trainer into business analysis yet there is no BA role in your firm? Read our suggestions for how to find the "BAs."
- [Identifying Hidden Project Stakeholders by Connecting the Relationships](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/identifying-hidden-project-stakeholders/) - Be sure to include the right stakeholders in your project using these techniques to discover the hidden connections and relationships in your organization.
- [How Do I Get Stakeholders to Come to My Meetings?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/help-a-ba-how-do-i-get-my-stakeholders-to-come-to-my-meetings/) - Do you spend too much time chasing down your stakeholders for meetings? Here are some ideas for ensuring the right people come to your meetings.
- [How to Leverage Your Business Experience to Get an IT BA Job](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/business-experience-leverage-it-ba-jo/) - Do you have a business background? Are interested in pursuing a business analyst career even though it seems like a whole lot of BA roles require IT experience?
- [From Quality Assurance Engineer to Business Analyst](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/quality-assurance-engineer-to-business-analyst/) - When I tell my story of getting started as a BA, I often start by saying that my transition happened with a hallway conversation. A senior BA on the business analyst team approached me on my way back to my desk and mentioned a new position that was opening in the department. She recommended I
- [How to Write a Business Analyst Job Description](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/business-analyst-job-description/) - Follow a step-by-step approach to defining responsibilities and qualifications so your next business analyst job description simplifies the hiring process.
- [How Can a Business Analyst Move From One Domain to Another?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/business-analyst-move-domains/) - Kent Davis shares the techniques he uses to get up to speed on a new domain as a business analyst.
- [5 Tips to Land More Business Analyst Job Interviews](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/5-tips-to-land-more-business-analyst-job-interviews/) - Consider these 5 tips for landing more interviews for business analyst jobs.
- [How Industry Expertise Can Impact Your Business Analyst Job Search](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/how-industry-expertise-can-impact-your-business-analyst-job-search/) - In the context of finding a BA job, whether it's your first or your twentieth, industry expertise often causes a lot of frustration and confusion.
- [What Questions Should a BA Ask in a Job Interview?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/help-a-ba-what-questions-should-a-ba-ask-in-a-job-interview/) - Reader question: For job interview purposes specifically, but also pertaining to those early days on the job, what questions should an entry level BA be asking? To provide additional context, I am currently interviewing for BA positions that match my experience level. Although I’m hoping for another job opportunity, I don’t want to wake up
- [What a BA Should Know About the UX Profession: Interview with Patrick Quattlebaum](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/what-a-ba-should-know-about-the-ux-profession-interview-with-patrick-quattlebaum/) - Patrick Quattlebaum of Macquarium shares an overview of the User Experience profession and provides some great synergies between UX and BA.
- [What Is the Average Business Analyst Salary?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/business-analyst-salary/) - Yes, we want to find work we enjoy. But as a mid-career professional, you probably have a certain set of salary requirements too. Will a career in business analysis satisfy them?
- [8 Provocative Questions that Encourage Lateral Thinking](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/asking-provocative-questions-to-encourage-lateral-thinking/) - Adrian Reed shares 8 provocative questions he uses to encourage lateral thinking amongst his stakeholders. A great list to get you thinking early in a project!
- [How to Use a Process Walk-through to Validate Requirements for a New System](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/using-a-process-walk-through-to-validate-requirements-for-a-new-system/) - Michelle Swoboda shares how a process walk-through helped her discover gaps in processes and systems. What a high energy way to validate new requirements!
- [How Do You Collect Requirements for a Reporting System?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/help-a-ba-how-do-you-collect-requirements-for-a-reporting-system/) - Do reporting requirements have you double-checking your BA skills? Check out this checklist for eliciting and analyzing requirements for a reporting system.
- [BA Success Story! Becoming an Enterprise Analyst -  Dr. Laura Kesner, CBAP](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/ba-success-story-becoming-an-enterprise-analyst-dr-laura-kesner-cbap/) - Laura Kesner has become an enterprise business analyst, focusing on understanding the business domain and informing decisions about the project portfolio.
- [How to Use a Project Journal to Keep Track of Your BA Work](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/professional-development-tip-keep-a-project-journal/) - Keeping a BA project journal is a simple professional development strategy that will help you reflect on and learn from your project experiences.
- [How to Move From IT to Business Analysis](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/how-to-become-a-business-analyst-when-you-have-an-it-background/) - Author: Adriana Beal You are a good software engineer, database manager, or software quality assurance professional who recently discovered that business analysis is the role you enjoy the most. How do you go from a technical role to a business analysis role? This is a problem faced by many aspiring business analysts, and even by
- [Why Do We See Technical Skills in Business Analyst Jobs?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/why-do-we-see-technical-skills-in-business-analyst-jobs/) - Business analysis is about knowing the business, right? Then why do we keep seeing so many job postings requiring technical skills?
- [How to Elicit Requirements from Distributed Teams? Virtual Brainstorming!](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/elicit-requirements-distributed-teams-virtual-brainstorming/) - In my last article on Bridging the Gap, I introduced some key concepts for planning virtual meetings: Consider the focus of the meeting or workshop; Minimize duration & maximize value; Involve everyone – create a collaborative spirit among those who will participate. With these themes in mind, your distributed team’s discovery, design and planning activities can
- [5 Ways to Stay Visible in a Flat Organization](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/how-do-i-stay-visible-in-a-flat-organization/) - Flatter organizations result in less face time with your manager. Are you being proactive about making your contributions visible and staying noticed?
- [How to Capture Stakeholder Concerns](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/capture-stakeholder-concerns/) - Capturing stakeholder concerns can help ensure your requirements retain their context as they are implemented.
- [Attending the Right Meetings and Avoiding Unnecessary Ones](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/attending-the-right-meetings-and-avoiding-unnecessary-ones/) - Attending meetings where you are needed and avoiding meetings where you are not can help reduce stress and actually make you more productive.
- [How to Successfully Sell Your initiatives to Your Boss](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/sell-your-initiatives-to-your-boss/) - Getting management to listen to you requires that you not just present your initiatives but also sell them in a way that your manager will perceive their value.
- [How Do I Define a KPI for a Business Analyst?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/kpi-for-a-business-analyst/) - Measuring business analysis performance can be a challenge. A given business analyst KPI might be measurable via peer reviews or defect analysis.
- [How to Get Beyond a Limited Business Analyst Role](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/how-to-get-beyond-a-a-career-plateau-by-right-sizing-your-initiatives/) - You might think you are taking initiative at work only to realize your career initiatives are too small to be noticed and get you beyond your career plateau.
- [Varied Work History? How to Showcase Key Projects in Your Business Analyst Resume](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/work-history-resume-key-projects/) - Your resume needs to tell a story about you as a candidate. Focusing on key projects over responsibilities can help tie together a varied career history.
- [How Do I Know If I'm Ready for My First Business Analyst Project?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/ready-first-business-analyst-project/) - Starting your first business analyst project can feel overwhelming. There are a few strategies you can take to overcome the fears and risks of starting as a BA.
- [I'm Letting Go of the Big Thick Requirements Document. Are You?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/i-am-letting-go-of-the-big-thick-requirements-document-are-you/) - Some recent posts across the blatherverse have highlighted some considerations that we as good business analysts must employ when developing and delivering our documentation and deliverables. These got me to thinking about my own very strong feelings in the past about what I should be doing as an analyst and how my audiences should be
- [What is the Difference Between a BA Contractor and a Consultant?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/what-is-the-difference-between-a-ba-contractor-and-a-consultant/) - Business analysts can fill many needs within an organization. Contractors typically do full-time project work. Consultants work on strategic engagements.
- [Does a Business Analyst Label Themselves as an IT Person?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/help-a-ba-does-a-business-analyst-label-themselves-as-an-it-person/) - Do business analysts always work with information systems? If I call myself a business analyst or identify with the business analysis profession, am I in IT?
- [The Danger in Being an Expert](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/the-lure-of-application-expertise/) - One of the biggest problems in the business analyst profession is that people expect us to be the experts. Over time, as we grow in a role within one organization, we build more domain knowledge and expertise and our area of focus can become increasingly narrow. Our managers come to expect us to become experts and
- [Building a Mature Business Analyst Practice: Interview with Mark Jenkins](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/building-a-mature-business-analyst-practice-interview-with-mark-jenkins/) - Mark Jenkins and I had the opportunity to chat a few months back while he was Manager, Business Analysis at Websense. He has since taken on a new role on the other side of the country as Associate Director, Business Analysis at KPMG. We initiated a conversation as the result of a Twitter stream [follow
- [Building a better business analysis practice](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/building-a-better-business-analysis-practice/) - Author: Adriana Beal John Davis writes: We’ve been looking at IAG’s BA Benchmark 2009 that deals with the impact of poor requirements practices on project and organisational success. Short of hiring a company such as IAG, how can we as BAs best help our organisation – or a client organisation for those of us in
- [How Big is the Gap Between Sales and Business Analysis?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/help-a-ba-can-i-make-the-transition-from-sales-to-business-analysis/) - Reader question: I have been in sales now for about 15 years, mostly in the financial industry. I am thinking of changing careers and the business analyst route seems interesting to me. From what I hear there is the interaction part with people along with communication skills and the liaison aspect between departments. My question
- [Akk! The Developers Won't Use My Requirements Specs!](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/the-developers-wont-use-my-requirements-specifications/) - Let me share one of my more humbling experiences as a business analyst. To be perfectly blunt, the developers did not like my requirements specifications. It was hard to realize that I had failed to communicate requirements in a way that was meaningful to them. But the hard truth was sitting right there in front
- [How to Plan the Move from Technical Analyst to Business Analyst](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/technical-analyst-to-business-analyst/) - On your path to becoming a business analyst, sometimes you have to take transitional positions. How do you make the most of a technical analyst opportunity that is so close, but not quite?
- [Durga Patil on Being a Business Analyst in the Insurance Domain](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/business-analyst-interview-durga-patil/) - Learn from the mistakes of others. You can't live long enough to make them all yourself. I had the opportunity to speak personally with Durga Patil, a business analyst with L&T Infotech. Durga has been a business analyst for over three years and prior to becoming a business analyst held various roles in software development
- [Managing ambiguity - a key business analyst competency](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/managing-ambiguity-a-key-business-analyst-competency/) - Author: Adriana Beal Among the many competencies that business analysts need to develop in order to advance their careers, the ability to manage ambiguity is undoubtedly a critical one. The rapid changes that happen internally and externally to organizations require business analysts to become comfortable acting in an environment in which uncertainty and change are
- [How Do I Break into the Financial Industry with No Industry Experience?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/help-a-ba-how-do-i-break-into-the-financial-industry-with-no-industry-experience/) - Editor's note: This week we are tacking the tough question of industry experience. I hold that you should only apply for jobs for which you are qualified and many BA jobs in specific industries require specific industry experience. This puts experienced BAs without the relevant experience in a tough position. Reader question: I am a
- [Technical Specifications and System Documentation Can Take Different Forms](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/technical-specifications-and-system-documentation-can-take-different-forms/) - Do you demand that your documentation serve double duty as a technical specification and a system document? While in the past I've done exactly that, my recent forays into more agile practices forced me to split how I see the value in various pieces of documentation. Adriana has already shared her views on how BAs
- [What were you doing a decade ago? What will you be doing a decade from now?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/what-were-you-doing-a-decade-ago-what-will-you-be-doing-a-decade-from-now/) - Today we start a new decade. While in the broader scheme of life and happiness, this is just one other moment passing us by, it does provide a logical time to take stock of where we are, where we've been, and where we're going. So let's consider the following questions: What was I doing 10
- [How Do I Craft Bullet Points for My Business Analyst Resume?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/bullet-points-business-analyst-resume/) - Reader Question: My question is about BA resumes. I have 5 years of experience in IT and around 4.5 in BA. I am a developer/BA blend, as I understand from your book :) My resume lists my experiences chronologically. I remember from your IIBA presentation on resumes that a resume should contain accomplishments vs just
- [How to Build a Transition Plan: 4 Steps to Onboarding a New Business Analyst](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/onboarding-new-business-analyst/) - Developing a transition plan can help a new business analyst hire be successful at their new job.
- [How to Groom the Product Backlog for Improved Sprint Planning](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/grooming-the-product-backlog-agile-requirements-management-for-improved-sprint-planning/) - An agile business analyst is responsible for grooming the product backlog, bringing a clear understanding of the highest priority user stories to the sprint planning session.
- [Requirements As the Main Focus of Business Analyst Work](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/requirements-as-the-main-focus-of-the-business-analyst-work/) - Requirements are central to business analysis work. It is possible that BAs who look to go "beyond requirements" do not fully appreciate the definition of "requirement".
- [How to Become More Confident in Requirements Elicitation](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/how-to-become-more-confident-in-requirements-elicitation-confidence/) - Initial elicitation sessions can cause nervousness to the inexperienced business analyst. Through preparation, practice, and pushing yourself, elicitation will become second-nature.
- [How to a Use a Stakeholder Request List to Facilitate Scope Definition](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/using-a-stakeholder-requests-list-as-part-of-scope-definition/) - Validating the input from your stakeholders in a requests list can be a key step on the path toward defining project scope.
- [Expanding the Business Analyst Role -- Good or Bad?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expanding-the-business-analyst-role-good-or-bad/) - Author: Adriana Beal One of the topics that appear to be on the mind of many business analysts lately is the expansion of the business analysis role. How can a BA make a difference in his/her organization, perhaps going beyond conventional analysis to become a visionary? What are the challenges a BA may need to
- [Some key challenges faced by business analyst managers](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/some-key-challenges-business-analyst-managers/) - Business analyst managers face challenges in managing executive and stakeholder expectations, recruiting BAs, and getting their senior analysts assigned to enterprise activities.
- [How I Take Meeting Notes and Facilitate the Discussion Without Driving Myself Crazy](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/take-meeting-notes/) - Filling the meeting facilitator and note-taker roles can be a challenge. I have a few note-taking habits that help ensure the discussion stays focused and I don't miss details.
- [If a Project is Approved, Do You Need To Do a Business Case?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/if-a-project-is-approved-do-you-need-to-do-a-business-case/) - A business case can be used to help secure project funding. It is also useful in aligning project participants around project scope and is a necessary input to starting requirements.
- [Requirements Templates: What To Do When You Must Start From Scratch](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/requirements-templates-start-from-scratch/) - Keeping a library of requirements specifications can help you avoid reinventing the wheel, but there is no substitute for good thinking when building a requirements plan.
- [How to Give Positive Feedback to Your Business Stakeholders](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/giving-positive-feedback-to-your-business-stakeholders/) - Positive feedback can encourage your business stakeholders to provide you the information you need and learn what helps you most in eliciting requirements.
- [How to Handle Job Titles in a Business Analyst Resume](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/how-to-handle-job-titles-in-a-business-analyst-resume/) - Most professionals qualified for business analyst jobs may not have held the BA title. Flexibility in your job titles can create an attention-getting business analyst resume.
- [Is Your Strength Grounded in System Knowledge or Business Analyst Competencies?](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/is-your-strength-grounded-in-system-knowledge-or-business-analyst-competencies/) - Let me share a story with you. I started my first BA job by transitioning from a QA engineer role into a BA role. I had acquired deep system knowledge. I knew how the system was put together and how the developers designed solutions. I didn't know a lick about business analysis (well at least
- [Improving software processes by engaging the business stakeholders](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/making-it-work-between-business-and-it-theres-no-such-thing-as-their-problem-guest-post/) - Improvements to the software development process often cross business-technology boundaries. Collaboration ensures all stakeholders are engaged in changes.
- [Making it Work Between Business and IT: Why and How to Reach Across Boundaries to Dissipate Potential Attitude Issues](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/making-it-work-between-business-and-it-why-and-how-to-reach-across-boundaries-to-dissipate-potential-attitude-issues-guest-post/) - When conflicts in communication create problems on IT projects, attitude issues can form. Good business analysis helps prevent misunderstandings.
- [How to Create a User Interface Specification](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/how-to-create-a-user-interface-specification/) - A user interface specification blends software requirements and design for information-rich pages within an application.
- [How to Create a Business Domain Model](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/domain-models/) - A domain model is a tool to help create conceptual understanding about a product or system. It explores concepts in the business domain and relationships between them.
- [How to Prepare a Requirements Document in 4 Steps](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/how-to-prepare-a-requirements-document/) - Step-by-step guide to translating information from business stakeholders into usable system documentation.
- [Aligning business with IT creates better workplaces.](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/aligning-business-with-it-creates-better-workplaces/) - I believe that good requirements make the technology shop a better place to work and make that work more fulfilling for everyone involved with technology.
- [Your Technical Team Needs Business Context Too](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/dont-forget-to-share-business-context-with-your-technical-team/) - Share business context with your developers because without a focused and engaged IT team you've got a well-defined problem that will never be solved.
- [How to Interview a Subject Matter Expert](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/how-to-interview-a-subject-matter-expert/) - Subject matter expert interviews provide a wealth of information to understand business processes, business needs, and system requirements.
- [How to Create a Product Backlog: An Agile Experience](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/an-agile-experience-my-first-product-backlog/) - Creating a product backlog requires a blend of business-driven requirements and design. Don't try it alone. Work with a good team and leverage best practices where you can.
- [What To Do When You Are In Between Projects: 10 Ideas That Add Value to Your Organization](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/in-between-projects/) - If you find yourself in between project, look for ways to leverage your skills and add value to your organization - the decision could keep you your BA job!
- [How to Explore the System to Discover Requirements](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/reverse-engineering-requirements-how-to-explore-the-system/) - When conducting a current capabilities assessment, take time to explore the system before engaging stakeholders.
- ["The Only Stupid Question is the One You Don't Ask"](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/the-only-stupid-question-is-the-one-you-dont-ask/) - Address why, as BAs, we don't ask the questions we should and how to overcome this challenge.
- [10 Ways to Discover What the Problem Really Is](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/10-ways-to-discover-what-the-problem-really-is/) - Unproductive conversations result from underlying disagreements about the problem to be solved. Great facilitators ask many questions to find the real problem.
- [5 Questions to Ask Before Starting a Technology Project](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/5-questions-to-ask-before-starting-any-technology-project/) - Before investing time and resources in a technology project, pause and consider what the problem is and the benefit of solving it.
- [The First 5 Signs That Business Analysis is the Career Choice For You](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/the-first-5-signs-that-business-analysis-is-the-career-choice-for-you/) - Signs that it might make sense to trade in your business role for a role on the technology team gathering and writing software requirements.
- [An Issue Tracking Template for Requirements Issues](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/issue-tracking-list/) - Learn how to use an issues list to drive alignment around software requirements and manage the requirements process.

## Pages

- [Bridging the Gap for Business Analysts](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/) - Business Analyst Online Training Unlock new opportunities in your business analysis career with practical, real-world online training The Business Analyst Blueprint® Yes, YOU can THRIVE as a business analyst. Secure your career with an upgraded, foundational business analysis skill set so you can bring a fresh business analysis approach and know exactly what to do
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- [Business Analysis Resources - no longer live in nav](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/business-analysis-resources/) - Free resources for business analysts who want to think more clearly and create real value.Explore templates, guides, and insights designed to support confident, proactive business analysis. FREE BUSINESS ANALYST TEMPLATES Scope Statement Template Drive value and achieve alignment in just 2-3 pages Align the team on value-driven activities. reduce rework and miscommunication. Clarify what's in
- [Welcome to Bridging the Gap!](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/value-confirmation/) - You're Almost In! 🎉 We just sent you an email to confirm your email address - to get access to the BA Success Pack and reader bonuses, please check your email now for a quick confirmation link. This extra step keeps our community exclusive and focused, ensuring you're part of something valuable. Note: The email
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- [Welcome to Bridging the Gap!](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/deliverables-first-confirmation/) - You're Almost In! 🎉 We just sent you an email to confirm your email address - to get access to the BA Deliverables Collection, please check your email now for a quick confirmation link. This extra step keeps our community exclusive and focused, ensuring you're part of something valuable. Note: The email will come from
- [The Business Analyst Deliverable Collection](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/deliverable-collection-confirmation/) - The Business Analyst Deliverables Collection From Bridging the Gap Click Here to Download the Deliverables Collection To help you use these materials to increase your success as a business analyst, here's a short list of our top tutorial and practical how-to resources. The Value-Driven Business Analyst BA Template Toolkits The Business Analyst Blueprint® training program
- [BTG Blog](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/blog/) - Welcome to My Blog All TopicsBA Skill SetCareer StrategyCase StudiesGetting Started Top 10 New Business Analysis Videos for 2025 2025 was a year of shorter, high-impact videos - all specifically for business analysts of course! My goal was to continue to go for depth, just in shorter ... View Post New Book for Business Analysts:
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- [Business Process Analysis Assessment for IIBA Webinar Series](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/value-assessment/) - >>Click here to download the assessment (.doc file) The file may open in a new tab, or appear in your downloads folder. We'll walk through this assessment during the IIBA® member webinar: How to Amplify Your Value: Part 2: Assess Your Business Analysis Practice. This 3 part webinar series, developed exclusively for IIBA® and IIBA
- [Business Analyst Templates to Get You Started with Effective Business Analysis Practices](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/business-analyst-templates/) - "Your pack of BSA templates was a great moral support for me because it helped me to realise that even though I haven't worked for a large company, I still did some work and I could relate to what others (like you Laura) have done and what the standards are."Dmitry M. "I have applied the
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- [Thank you for joining BA Essentials Master Class - 2025 Pilot Cohort](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/thank-you-for-joining-ba-essentials-master-class-live2025/) - We're so excited to have you join us in the BA Essentials Master Class Self-Study. You'll be receiving an email shortly from Bridging the Gap Training (training@bridging-the-gap.com) confirming your registration and providing a set of next steps to take before the program begins on Thursday, October 24, 2025. Please be sure to add training@bridging-the-gap.com and
- [Here Are Your Reader Bonuses!](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/reader-bonuses/) - Welcome to Bridging the Gap! Thank you so much for reading The Value-Driven Business Analyst! Here are your reader bonuses! >>Click here to download the first 3 chapters (PDF)> Click here to download the Business Analyst Success Pack (.zip file)
- [Welcome to Bridging the Gap](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/about-bridging-the-gap/) - We're so glad you are here. You are a business analyst, or want to be a business analyst, and you are looking for the missing link that will tie your career together so you can earn the respect, title, and salary you truly deserve. Ultimately, you want to experience more confidence and success in your
- [Business Analysis Scope Statement - Free Template](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/scope-statement-template/) - Free Scope Statement Template Drive Value and Achieve Alignmentin Just 2-3 Pages Professional, Annotated, Ready-To-Use Scope Template Email name*FirstNamename[last]website*Email Email Email Email phone[home] Download Now By signing up, you agree to our Privacy Policy. Your details are safe with us. Align the team on value-driven activities to keep everyone focused Reduce rework and miscommunication by clarifying
- [About Laura Brandenburg, Founder and CEO of Bridging the Gap](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/about-laura-brandenburg/) - Laura Brandenburg, CBAP helps professionals start business analyst careers. She hosts Bridging the Gap, has published two books, and leads virtual courses.
- [How to Start a Business Analyst Career](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/start-a-business-analyst-career/) - The most comprehensive guide available for creating an actionable plan that enables you to start a business analyst career. Ellen Gottesdiener, AuthorThe Software Requirements Memory Jogger Click below to pick up the print or digital version (via Amazon.com) Buy Print Edition $29.95 Buy Digital Edition $7.95 Get YOUR successful start as a Business Analyst With
- [Case Studies from The Business Analyst Blueprint®](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/about-our-case-studies/) - Case Studies from The Business Analyst Blueprint® If we could sum up in one word what our participants in The Business Analyst Blueprint® program say they experience it would be: CONFIDENCE. This is a one-of-a-kind, practical, real-world on-the-job training program. Browse our participant success stories to learn more about what you can expect inside the
- [Welcome to the Scope Workshop!](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/scope-workshop-welcome/) - We're so excited you'll be joining us for the Scope Workshop! On February 19, 2025, from 1-4 PM Eastern, you'll draft a Scope Statement, develop an action plan to get buy-in on scope, and discover how to leverage generativeAI to create drafts and identify clarifying questions. A welcome email from training@bridging-the-gap.com is headed your way
- [Quick Start to Success - Free Workshop](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/quick/) - Sign Up for the Free Quick Start to Success Workshop Discover the opportunities you have as a business analyst. Email* Email* FirstNameEmail Email* phone[home]*url*Emailname*email* Get My Free Workshop By signing up, you agree to our Privacy Policy. Your details are safe with us. Being on dev teams for 20 years didn't fully prepare my move to
- [Newsletter - Receive Email Updates from Bridging the Gap](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/newsletter/) - Sign-Up to Receive Email Updates Email name[first]FirstNamewebsitePhoneNumberEmail* Email EmailLName* Subscribe Now By signing up, you agree to our Privacy Policy. Your details are safe with us. Actionable Business Analysis Career Guidance Business Analysis Techniques and Tutorials Exclusive Offers and Special Events About Your Host I'm Laura Brandenburg, ACBA, CBAP, and with over 20 years of experience
- [10 Tips to Improve Stakeholder Engagement - Free Guide](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/10-tips-improve-stakeholder-engagement/) - Instant Access 10 Tips to ImproveStakeholder Engagement Free Guide websiteLastNameFName*FirstNameEmail phone[home]EmailEmailEmail Email* Download Now By signing up, you agree to our Privacy Policy. Your details are safe with us. Save time and effort by clarifying the requirements more quickly. Build stronger relationships that elevate your reputation and career. Improve project outcomes by communicating more effectively. About
- [Entity Relationship Diagram - Free Sample and Tutorial](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/erd/) - Instant Access Entity Relationship Diagram Free Sample + Simple Tutorial Email* FirstNameurlphone Email Email* addressname*name[last]Email Download Now By signing up, you agree to our Privacy Policy. Your details are safe with us. Discover exactly what an ERD looks like. Uncover how to use an ERD as a BA, even if you don't know SQL. Learn the
- [Business Analysis Skills Assessment](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/business-analyst-skills-assessment/) - Instant Access Discover Exactly Where You Stand as a Business Analyst Free Skills Assessment Email nameFirstNamePhoneNumberEmail Email* url*EmailFName*Email* Download Now By signing up, you agree to our Privacy Policy. Your details are safe with us. Discover the essential skills to succeed as a business analyst. Gain clarity on your strengths and transferable skills. Define an action
- [Job Interview Prep Guide](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/job-interview-prep-guide/) - Instant Access Find Out Exactly What to Expect In a Business Analyst Job Interview Free Job Interview Prep Guide phone[home]website*FirstNameFName*Email* Email* Email* name*EmailEmail Download Now By signing up, you agree to our Privacy Policy. Your details are safe with us. Discover 3 simple steps that will help you ace your job interview. Leverage the quick tips
- [Data Modeling - Free Training](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/dmfree/) - Instant Access Discover Essential Data Modeling Techniques (Even If You Don't Know How to Code) Free Data Modeling Training Email* url*numberEmail* Email* EmailFName*LastName Join Now By signing up, you agree to our Privacy Policy. Your details are safe with us. Discover how to understand new domains more quickly. Excel on system integration and data migration projects.
- [Free Requirements Checklist](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/freechecklist/) - INSTANT ACCESS Free Requirements Checklist -Support Customers Sample Requirements Checklist Download LastName*FNameFirstNameEmail* Email Email websitePhoneNumberEmail Download Now By signing up, you agree to our Privacy Policy. Your details are safe with us. Identify what questions to ask during an elicitation session. Feel more confident and prepared going into a discovery meeting. Free sample from the Requirements
- [Use Case Template - Free Download](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/uctemplate/) - Instant access Get Everyone On the Same Page About the Software Requirements Free Use Case Template Email Email* urlEmail* Email FNameLNamephone[home]* Download Now By signing up, you agree to our Privacy Policy. Your details are safe with us. Clarify exactly what the software needs to do. Avoid wasting time with technical jargon. No coding knowledge necessary.
- [Business Process Template](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/get-business-process-template/) - Free Business Process Template Discover What Your Stakeholders Really Need From the Project Free Business Process Template Email FirstNameurlEmail* Email Email numberLastName*EmailEmail* Download Now By signing up, you agree to our Privacy Policy. Your details are safe with us. Discover how to ask powerful questions. Avoid wasting money on software with no ROI. Clarify the step-by-step
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- [Welcome to Bridging the Gap!](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/quick-confirmation/) - You're Almost In! 🎉 We just sent you an email to confirm your subscription - to get access to the workshop, please check your email now for a quick confirmation link. This extra step keeps our community exclusive and focused, ensuring you're part of something valuable. Confirm now to lock in access-don't miss out! Note:
- [The Business Analyst Blueprint® certification program](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/business-analyst-blueprint-old/) - The Business Analyst Blueprint® Certification Program Earn your Applied Certification in Business Analysis™ (ACBA) Next session starts January 25, 2024 Registration for the Fall 2023 session is currently closed. Contact us at info@bridging-the-gap.com to get the details about a future session. How it Works Enroll using our secure online payment system. Participate in The Business
- [Thank you for picking up the Summer Package Deal!](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/thank-you-package/) - We're so excited to have you as part of the Bridging the Gap community. You'll be receiving an email shortly from Bridging the Gap Training (training@bridging-the-gap.com) with your login credentials to our online Bridging the Gap Training platform. Inside the platform, you'll receive access to: The BA Essentials Master Class Self-Study The Effective Communication Templates
- [Business Analyst Manifesto](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/about-bridging-the-gap/business-analyst-manifesto/) - Out of chaos, we create order. Out of disagreement, we create alignment. Out of ambiguity, we create clarity. But most of all, we create positive change for the organizations we serve. Business analysts lead teams from the inside out. We create positive change for our organizations. We inspire others to follow us on our path
- [I’m Looking for a Business Analyst Job](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/im-looking-for-a-business-analyst-job/) - Are you looking for your first or next business analyst job? Getting hired for a business analyst job isn’t like getting hired for other IT roles. We’ve helped many professionals improve their resumes, discover transferable skills, and prepare for job interviews. These articles walk you through our approach to the BA job search process. >>
- [Deliver successful project outcomes with the BA Essentials Master Class](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/baessentials-ss/) - The special offer for the self-study course has expired and is no longer available. (If you believe you are receiving this expiration message in error, please contact us at info@bridging-the-gap.com.)
- [BA Essentials Master Class Self-Study - Frequently Asked Questions](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/bae-ss-faq/) - What is the BA Essentials Master Class Self-Study? The BA Essentials Master Class is an online course, covering the 8-step business analysis process framework. You'll receive: 10 lessons in mp4 video and mp3 audio formats, along with fully formatted PDF text transcripts. (Lessons are delivered weekly over a period of 30 days.) Weekly guidepost emails to help
- [The Business Analyst Blueprint® Certification Program – Frequently Asked Questions](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/blueprint-faq/) - The Business Analyst Blueprint® Certification ProgramFrequently Asked Questions What is The Business Analyst Blueprint® certification program and when is the next session scheduled? The Business Analyst Blueprint® certification program is our most comprehensive program which runs for 5 months and includes the following modules: Business Process Analysis, Use Cases and Wireframes, Data Modeling for Business
- [Thanks for Joining the Waitlist](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/bab-interest-thanks/) - Thanks for Joining the Waitlist We've got you on the waitlist for The Business Analyst Blueprint® certification program, where you can earn your Applied Certification in Business Analysis™ (ACBA). The first thing to do is download the certification program handout, which covers the course syllabus, timeline, and other important information about the program. >> Click here to download
- [Bridging the Gap - Frequently Asked Questions About Our Effective Conversations Template Collection](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/ectc-faq/) - Can I review samples of the Effective Conversation Template Collection before purchase? You can view a sample of the Effective Conversations Template Collection here by clicking on the Effective Conversations Template Collection When do we receive the course materials? You will receive the Effective Conversations Template Collection immediately after making the investment. The collection is
- [Update Your LinkedIn Profile to Highlight Your Course Completion](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/update-linkedin-course-cert/) - Update Your Profile Go to “Edit Your Profile” and then “Add profile section." Choose "Accomplishments" and then "Courses." On this screen, provide the course name and number from your certificate of completion, and optionally, link to a specific position. Now your course participation will show up under the Accomplishments section of your LinkedIn profile, and
- [BTG Template Bundle – Product Demonstration](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/ev-bundle-demo-222/) - We recorded a demo of each of our 5 templates toolkits so you can fully understand the value you are getting when you purchase the Bridging the Gap Template Bundle. As a reminder, you're eligible to receive an extra $50 off our best-selling BTG Template Bundle for a few days only. Be sure to grab
- [Bridging the Gap - Frequently Asked Questions About Our Online Courses and Template Toolkits](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/btg-faq/) - Can I review samples of the template toolkits before purchasing? Yes! Click here to watch a video showing samples from each of the 5 template toolkits we offer at Bridging the Gap. I want to start a career as a BA, but I've never worked as a BA or done formal BA work. Which course right for me? The
- [Thanks for Picking Up the BA Template Toolkit!](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/template-toolkit-thank-you/) - You'll be receiving an email shortly with details for downloading the BA Template Toolkit. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us at info (at) bridging-the-gap (dot) com. In the meantime, we want to thank you for your investment in your BA career. As a special thanks, you can save $30 on our Visual Model Sample Pack.
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## Categories

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- [Effective Communication](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/category/business-analyst-knowledge/effective-communication/)
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- [BA Team Development](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/category/business-analyst-career-advice/business-analyst-practice/)
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## Countries

- [United States](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/region//united-states/)
- [Australia](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/region/australia/)
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- [Jamaica](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/region/jamaica/)
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- [South Africa](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/region/south-africa/)
- [Nigeria](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/region/nigeria/)

## Expertise Areas

- [Financial Services](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/financial-services/)
- [Telecommunications](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/telecommunications/)
- [Utilities](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/utilities/)
- [Not-for-Profit](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/not-for-profit/)
- [Certified Scrum Master](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/certified-scrum-master/)
- [Project Management](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/project-management/)
- [Systems Testing](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/systems-testing/)
- [Training](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/training/)
- [RFI/RFQ preparation](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/rfi-rfq-preparation/)
- [Vendor Evaluation & System Selection](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/vendor-evaluation-system-selection/)
- [Data Mapping & Migration](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/data-mapping-migration/)
- [Systems Integration](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/systems-integration/)
- [Implementation & Support](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/implementation-support/)
- [Salesforce Administration](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/salesforce-administration/)
- [Marketing](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/marketing/)
- [Data integration](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/data-integration/)
- [business process analysis](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/business-process-analysis/)
- [CRM](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/crm/)
- [life and health insurance](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/life-and-health-insurance/)
- [Business Process](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/business-process/)
- [Diversity](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/diversity/)
- [Equity and Inclusion](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/equity-and-inclusion/)
- [Leadership](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/leadership/)
- [Career Development](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/career-development/)
- [Self Improvement](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/self-improvement/)
- [Project Management Professional (PMP)](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/project-management-professional-pmp/)
- [Career Coaching](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/career-coaching/)
- [Course Creation](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/course-creation/)
- [Online Marketing](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/online-marketing/)
- [Digital Transformation](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/digital-transformation/)
- [Publishing](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/publishing/)
- [Business Strategy](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/business-strategy/)
- [Agile Development](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/agile-development/)
- [SDLC](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/sdlc/)
- [Scrum](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/scrum/)
- [SharePoint Online](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/sharepoint-online/)
- [Microsoft Teams Implementation](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/microsoft-teams-implementation/)
- [SAP Production Planning](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/sap-production-planning/)
- [Investment Operations](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/investment-operations/)
- [Business Process Analysis and Improvement](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/business-process-analysis-and-improvement/)
- [Operational Risk Management](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/operational-risk-management/)
- [Manufacturing](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/manufacturing/)
- [ERP](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/erp/)
- [Data Warehouse](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/data-warehouse/)
- [Business Process Mapping](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/business-process-mapping/)
- [IT Financial Industry](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/it-financial-industry/)
- [Time Management System](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/time-management-system/)
- [Content Management System](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/content-management-system/)
- [Business Process Management](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/business-process-management/)
- [Agile](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/agile/)
- [Change Management](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/change-management/)
- [Business Process Improvement](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/business-process-improvement/)
- [Stakeholder Engagement](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/stakeholder-engagement/)
- [Business Analysis](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/business-analysis/)
- [Business Architecture](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/business-architecture/)
- [Software Development](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/software-development/)
- [Salesforce](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/salesforce/)
- [requirements elicitation](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/requirements-elicitation/)
- [user story writing](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/user-story-writing/)
- [and refinement](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/and-refinement/)
- [Business Process Improvement Mapping](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/business-process-improvement-mapping/)
- [Use Case](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/use-case/)
- [Wireframes](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/wireframes/)
- [Data Modeling](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/data-modeling/)
- [User Story Workshop](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/user-story-workshop/)
- [Customer Support Call Center](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/customer-support-call-center/)
- [Process Improvement](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/process-improvement/)
- [Supply chain](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/supply-chain/)
- [Inventory and Web Development](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/inventory-and-web-development/)
- [Higher Ed](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/higher-ed/)
- [Higher education](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/higher-education/)
- [PeopleSoft](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/peoplesoft/)
- [requirements gathering](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/requirements-gathering/)
- [Healthcare/Pharmaceutical/Telecom Industries](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/healthcare-pharmaceutical-telecom-industries/)
- [HIPPA](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/hippa/)
- [21 CFR Part 11](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/21-cfr-part-11/)
- [Software Quality Assurance](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/software-quality-assurance/)
- [Small Business Operations](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/small-business-operations/)
- [EOS Model](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/eos-model/)
- [Salesforce Administration and Business Analysis](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/salesforce-administration-and-business-analysis/)
- [Healthcare](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/healthcare/)
- [Nonprofits](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/nonprofits/)
- [IT Security](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/it-security/)
- [Data Privacy](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/data-privacy/)
- [Small Business Consulting/Operations](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/small-business-consulting-operations/)
- [Web Development](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/web-development/)
- [Insurance](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/insurance/)
- [Business Process Analyst](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/business-process-analyst/)
- [Salesforce Configuration](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/salesforce-configuration/)
- [Process Mapping](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/process-mapping/)
- [Use Cases](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/use-cases/)
- [User Stories](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/user-stories/)
- [Business Development](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/business-development/)
- [Business Intelligence](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/business-intelligence/)
- [Operations Analysis](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/operations-analysis/)
- [Information Technology](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/information-technology/)
- [Education](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/education/)
- [Database Administration](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/database-administration/)
- [Data Analysis](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/data-analysis/)
- [Energy Sector Innovation](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/energy-sector-innovation/)
- [Consulting](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/consulting/)
- [ITIL](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/itil/)
- [ITSM](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/itsm/)
- [KPIs](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/kpis/)
- [functional requirement](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/functional-requirement/)
- [consultancy experience](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/consultancy-experience/)
- [Salesforce Business Analysis](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/salesforce-business-analysis/)
- [SAFe Agile](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/safe-agile/)
- [Business Analysis Training and Education](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/business-analysis-training-and-education/)
- [Certification](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/certification/)
- [Professional Business Analyst](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/professional-business-analyst/)
- [Semiconductor](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/semiconductor/)
- [computer hardware and services industries](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/computer-hardware-and-services-industries/)
- [Agile software development methodology](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/agile-software-development-methodology/)
- [Salesforce Analysis](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/salesforce-analysis/)
- [Business Process Analysis & Improvement](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/business-process-analysis-improvement/)
- [Requirements Elicitation & Management](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/requirements-elicitation-management/)
- [Medical Device](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/medical-device/)
- [Facilitation](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/facilitation/)
- [Content](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/content/)
- [data](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/data/)
- [operations](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/operations/)
- [media & digital content](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/media-digital-content/)
- [Non-profit Management](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/non-profit-management/)
- [Government](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/government/)
- [mobile apps](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/mobile-apps/)
- [websites](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/websites/)
- [Process flows](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/process-flows/)
- [Quality Assurance Testing/Leading](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/quality-assurance-testing-leading/)
- [Financials and Procurement ERP](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/financials-and-procurement-erp/)
- [QA](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/qa/)
- [IT system analysis](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/it-system-analysis/)
- [client/stakeholder relations](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/client-stakeholder-relations/)
- [written and oral communications](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/written-and-oral-communications/)
- [User story writing and refinement](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/user-story-writing-and-refinement/)
- [written communication](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/written-communication/)
- [Banking](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/banking/)
- [IT projects](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/it-projects/)
- [Requirement Elicitation](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/requirement-elicitation/)
- [Agile methodology](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/agile-methodology/)
- [Requirements Management](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/requirements-management/)
- [and Elicitation](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/and-elicitation/)
- [Nonprofit](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/nonprofit/)
- [US Department of Defense](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/us-department-of-defense/)
- [Mortgage](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/mortgage/)
- [Finance](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/finance/)
- [Waterfall](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/waterfall/)
- [Six Sigma](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/six-sigma/)
- [Use Cases and Wireframes](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/use-cases-and-wireframes/)
- [E-commerce](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/e-commerce/)
- [Market Intelligence](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/market-intelligence/)
- [Product Owner](https://www.bridging-the-gap.com/expertise-area/product-owner/)