10 Things About Business Analysis I Learned From My Dog
Bob McGannon, PMP

Two years ago we examined canine knowledge and how it applies to project management. The relationships skills of dogs - their loyalty and ability to draw attention to themselves - provided us with lessons to apply to project management. The world of business analysis has some things to learn from our canine friends as well!

Dogs efficiently read the “requirements” of their masters and have a number of skills that good business analysts should aspire to emulate. So, once again, through extensive empirical research, interactive testing and a number of years of direct observation, compiled below are the “best of the best” techniques for business analysis I have learned from my dog. Open your mind, reflect on the dogs you have encountered and see if you can learn from these canine traits as well…

1) Approach everyone with a wag of your tail

One of the business analyst’s greatest challenges is to collect the requirements from a variety of business customers, while being mindful of their need to manage the day-to-day business. To be successful in this endeavor, business analysts need to be very friendly, approachable, considerate, in tune to the needs of others, and “to be there with understanding” when a customer conveys their needs. Just like a dog that is “by your side” through thick and thin, the business analyst needs to be flexible to accommodate business needs and be there when the opportunity to observe business processes present themselves. Be there for your customers, be loyal to their needs, and respond eagerly when called.

2) Don’t judge – everyone might give you a snack

Dogs will approach anyone and everyone – the business analyst needs to display the same trait. Most dogs approach people with the attitude that “snacks” can come from anyone – business analysts need to adopt the same attitude. Some business users will have an extremely rich, deep level of knowledge. Others will be “novice users” and will not provide you with as much information – but the information “snacks” they provide could be very valuable. The information on how novice users capitalize on a system or process is just as valuable as the information received from “super-users.” Both the novice and the super-user need to be satisfied with the new system or process designed with the help of the business analyst; the input from both of those user types and most everyone in-between is vital to your success.

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