What Does a Business Analyst Do?

I'm curious about what a business analyst actually does daily. I'm considering majoring in business and wondering if this role might be something I'd enjoy. Can anyone break down the key responsibilities and skills needed for this job?

A business analyst plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between IT and business domains. They help organizations understand the current status of their operations and reveal areas for improvement. Here's a breakdown of common responsibilities and required skills:

Responsibilities:

- Requirement Gathering: Business analysts often work closely with stakeholders to gather business requirements. They meticulously document these needs, usually in the form of a Business Requirements Document (BRD) or User Stories.

- Data Analysis: They analyze complex datasets to make informed recommendations about potential business decisions. They often use a variety of tools and techniques during this process.

- Problem-Solving: Finding optimal solutions to business problems is part of their duty. They need to analyze trade-offs, assess impact, and recommend solutions that produce the best outcome for the company.

- Communication: They usually act as a liaison between stakeholders and the tech team to ensure everyone's on the same page about project details, changes, and outcomes.

Skills Needed:

- Analytical Skills: The job requires strong analytical skills to understand complex business processes and identify areas for improvement.

- Communication & Interpersonal Skills: They must be able to communicate complex ideas clearly, collaborate effectively with different teams, and manage stakeholder expectations.

- Problem-Solving Skills: Business analysts need a strong ability to solve intricate and multiple business problems, often simultaneously.

- Technical Skills: They need to comprehend and work with different IT systems and software, and understand basics of programming, databases, and systems engineering.

- Project Management Skills: They often oversee projects, making sure that they are completed on time and within budget.

Please note that the specifics of the role can vary depending on the industry and the company. You might want to seek internships or job shadowing opportunities to get a firsthand experience of what it's like to be a business analyst.