Business and Requirement Analysis

We provide business analysis and requirement analysis as a vital input to the development process. A complete understanding of the client’s business is required to help our clients understand and articulate their requirements. We work with our clients not just on business requirements, functional requirements, and software specifications for software development but also on process design, change management, user experience, and organisational design.

Our analysts and architects are equally adept at defining and detailing non-functional requirements for system stability, performance, reliability, and security. Since we often use agile development, the goal is not necessarily to produce a specification. Instead, the result may be user stories, use-case diagrams, or screen designs. In addition, business analysis is not necessarily a one-time exercise at the beginning but may continue during the entire development phase.

Different ways we offer business analysis

Our approach is flexible and pragmatic.  For ArchOver we allocated a full-time business analyst to this peer-to-peer lending start-up to analyse and specify a range of complex requirements.  For the European Association of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery (EACTS), a scientific and professional association, our analysts defined detailed functional requirements and specifications for their membership, conference and training software.  For a company that inspects elevators, we spent a few days on-site going through their old Access system and documented the same, and we conducted several workshops online. We prepared a requirement document, which was subsequently converted into user stories. After that, we developed the software using agile methodology, and the client checked the software as it was produced.

The Strategic Value of Business Analysis

A thorough business analysis forms the backbone of any successful project. By understanding the client’s strategic objectives and market challenges, our approach ensures that every requirement is aligned with broader business goals. This strategic alignment mitigates risk and prepares the way for innovative solutions that can offer a competitive edge. A well-defined analysis process translates into enhanced decision-making, streamlined project execution, and a better return on investment.

Methodologies and Tools for Effective Analysis

Our analysts employ a variety of methodologies and tools tailored to each project’s unique needs. Some of the key techniques include:

  • SWOT Analysis and Process Mapping: These methods help identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats and map out current and future processes.
  • Agile User Story Mapping and Use Case Diagrams: We leverage agile techniques to create user stories and visual diagrams that provide developers with a clear and actionable blueprint.
  • Prototyping and Wireframing: Early visualisation of user interfaces and interactions ensures that the end product meets user expectations before full-scale development begins.

The integration of these tools ensures that both functional and non-functional requirements are captured accurately, facilitating a smoother transition from concept to implementation.

Stakeholder Engagement and Communication

Successful business analysis is built on a foundation of clear and continuous communication. We prioritise collaboration with all relevant stakeholders, from senior management and end-users to technical teams. By conducting workshops, interviews, and feedback sessions, we ensure that all perspectives are considered. This collaborative approach not only refines the requirements but also helps manage expectations and secure stakeholder buy-in throughout the development process.

Continuous Improvement and Adaptive Analysis

Change is inevitable in today’s fast-paced business environment. Our business and requirement analysis processes are designed to be iterative and adaptive. Rather than a one-off exercise, analysis continues alongside development, allowing for the incorporation of new insights, emerging market trends, and evolving business needs. This continuous feedback loop means our solutions remain relevant and robust, even as the underlying business context shifts.

Contact us to discuss how we can help you