Shows
BA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastTrilogy Pete: The Digital Solutions SeriesAssistKD’s Product Strategy Director Pete Thompson is the author of the new BCS Digital Solutions series. In this BA Brew Pete, explains how he saw the need for an up to date, comprehensive body of knowledge for business and IT professionals, and talks about the process of writing the three books – Defining Digital Solutions, Designing Digital Solutions and Delivering Digital Solutions. Topics discussed include: The advantage of publishing the body of knowledge as a trilogy, including a book devoted to ‘delivery'; methodologies, techniques and practices covered in the books; The many tools and techniques in the di...
2025-08-2219 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastBusiness Service Architecture (feat. Debra Paul and Jonathan Hunsley)hat is Business Service Architecture, and why is it important to business change professionals? In this BA Brew, Debra Paul and Jonathan Hunsley, authors of Business Architecture: A Comprehensive Guide, answer these question, and more. All too often, services and products just don’t work, resulting in poor outcomes for customers and other stakeholders. Business Service Architecture takes an ecosystem view, looking at how the architecture of a product or service can be better designed. Topics discussed in this BA Brew include: How end-to-end thinking and taking customer feedback on board helps to eliminate ‘pain points’ How co...
2025-08-0824 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastThe 100th BA Brew (feat. Fabricio Laguna)For the 100th Brew we decided to do something completely different. Fabricio Laguna joins the Crew for an in real time SWOT analysis of the BA profession – captured heroically by Jonathan on Mural – and available to download as a PDF here.Watch out for when everyone shares the one thing they would do to take the profession forward… (did anyone say ‘Empress of Business Analysis’?)Fabricio Laguna is a highly experienced BA, Business Consultant, and international speaker. He is the former President of IIBA Brazil Chapter and is currently Senior Adviser to the IIBA CEO.If yo...
2025-05-1640 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastCybersecurity and Business Analysis (Feat. Bindu Channaveerappa)What’s all the fuss about cybersecurity? And why do business analysts need to understand it? Cybersecurity and business analysis expert Bindu Channaveerappa is the special guest on this week’s BA Brew, where she argues that an understanding of cybersecurity is now integral to the work of the BA. “When we create the value, why leave the security to someone else?” Bindu Channaveerappa is a highly respected author, trainer and international speaker on business analysis and cyber security. Her book, ‘Cyber Security and Business Analysis: An essential guide to secure and robust systems’ is available fr...
2025-03-0729 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastBusiness Architecture – A Comprehensive GuideThis BA Brew focuses on the newly published ‘Business Architecture: a comprehensive guide.’ Authors Jonathan Hunsley and Debra Paul and contributing author Victoria Banner discuss the ‘why’ of the book; the joy of collaborating and sharing ideas; and some of their favourite content including: - leveraging capability to meet goals and outcomes using the CALM model - comparing the business architecture service framework to the business analysis service framework and other service frameworks for role clarity - information concepts including data protection and security - case studies showing the positive...
2025-02-2123 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastCustomer Experience AnalysisIn AssistKD’s latest Business Analysis podcast the team discuss why every touchpoint of the customer journey matters... and how a deeper understanding of the customer experience can only benefit organisations and the wider economy. Kerry, Mike and Jonathan get some serious mileage out of a restaurant analogy and Mike gets extra brownie points for mentioning POPIT™️within the first two minutes of the podcast. Topics covered include: what is the customer experience; the difference between CX and UX (User Experience) and which elements of POPIT™️relate to each; plus useful techniques such as empathy maps, cust...
2025-01-2421 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastCan an MBA help your BA career? (feat. Christina Tan)Are you a Business Analyst considering your next career move? Our latest BA Brew considers an academic route for BAs and how a Master of Business Administration (MBA) postgraduate degree could revitalise your career. AssistKD’s Debbie Paul and Lisa Hudson are joined by IIBA UK Director and Transformation Consultant at Burendo Christina Tan to talk about their respective MBA journeys. They discuss the rationale for studying towards an MBA, the different business subjects typically covered, learning methods, time management, challenges, valuable takeaways and networking opportunities. If you enjoy this BA Brew, the fo...
2025-01-1032 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastSeasons Greetings from the BA Brew CrewIn AssistKD’s 2024 BA Brew Christmas message the Crew discuss what they are most looking forward to about Christmas and share some very cheesy jokes. Lisa and Kerry are excited about Christmas Day; Mike (or is it Santa?) is going to parkrun, Pete does not need any more socks, and Jo is looking forward to playing Cards Against Humanity with her 90-year-old Grandad! #merrychristmas #BABrew #businessanalysis #businessanalyst #servicedesign #businesschange
2024-12-2007 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastThe Double Diamond (feat. Liza Laya)The Double Diamond approach is a popular (and fun) design thinking technique designed to help you generate ideas; problem solve; challenge and even reverse assumptions. Our latest BA Brew with Jonathan Hunsley, Lisa Hudson and special guest Liza Laya introduces the framework – discussing its uses, benefits and some real-world applications. Liza Laya is Head of Technology and Digital Reform at a state government agency in Melbourne, Australia. She has almost 25 years of local and international experience and currently oversees teams responsible for delivering technology and data reforms. FURTHER RESOURCES This podcast includes mention of the S...
2024-11-1127 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastCharacter Crafting (feat. Helen Holder)Have you heard of Character Crafting and how it can be used to build resilience and leadership skills? In this enlightening chat our special guest, Helen Holder, discusses the positive character traits and behaviours central to the BA role… and how we can develop and maintain them. Topics discussed include: the Personal Strength inventory; character vs. the cult of personality; identifying your character strengths and weaknesses; developing through practice; and the power of theT Lego persona. Helen Holder has over 10 years’ experience working as a BA for public sector organisations. Passionate about elevating the BA prof...
2024-11-0823 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastBA Apprentice of the Year (feat. Lorna Mylett)Do you love a success story? BA Apprentice of the Year 2024 Lorna Mylett is this week’s special BA Brew guest. She shares her experience of the Business Analyst Apprenticeship supported by her employers DWP, and AssistKD. Topics discussed include: learning and applying new skills and understanding; the value of learning as part of a group and having a mentor; and what it’s like to be thrown at the deep end at the IRM UK BA Conference Europe. If you enjoyed this BA Brew, you may find the following resources of interest.
2024-10-2522 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastCreative ThinkingTricky business problem? Get those (creative) thinking caps on! In this week’s BA Brew the Crew discuss how creative thinking can help business change professionals challenge the status quo, think expansively and come up with effective solutions. Questions addressed include: What is creative thinking? How can you create an environment for creative thinking? What are the potential barriers? What are your top 3 creative thinking techniques? You may find the following articles, course, free learning and BA Brews useful: ARTICLES Zombie Penguin Business Analysts: Creativity Techniques and Divergent Thinking...
2024-10-1128 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastPsychological Safety (feat. Emma Lee)If you have ever wanted to know more about psychological safety this brew is a one not to be missed. Jonathan Hunsley and Philippa Thomas are joined by Emma Lee (Chief Psychologist at Matthew Syed Consulting and registered psychologist) to discuss this important topic.Collectively they explore questions such as:▶️What is psychological safety?▶️Why is psychological safety important?▶️How does psychological safety impact individuals and teams?▶️How might an absence of psychological safety impact creativity and organisational learning?▶️How might we develop a culture of psychological safety?
2024-09-2735 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastHistory of the BA Conference (feat. Shane McGlynn, Rachael Levermore and James Archer)In this special BA Conference Europe BA Brew, AssistKD CEO Debra Paul is joined by three BA Conference legends: Shane McGlynn, Rachel Levermore, and James Archer (who started the ball rolling in the first place!) The BA Conference Europe is Europe’s foremost Business Analysis conference, which has evolved over the past 16 years to over 500 attendees and 6 streams of talks. This BA Brew celebrates: the dedication and enthusiasm of the Advisory Board who tune in to the latest thinking and different perspectives everyone behind the scenes who helps to make this wonderful conference happen th...
2024-09-0630 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastLearning Styles (feat. Cat Warren)Are you an Activist, a Theorist, a Pragmatist or a Reflector? Our latest BA Brew could help you find out and get the most from your learning. The Brew Crew are joined by former Apprentice and now BA at the Environment Agency Cat Warren to talk about some of the different learning models (Kolb, Bloom and Honey and Mumford). They look at how the different learning approaches work with training courses, course manuals and eLearning and explore how understanding other people’s different learning styles helps with facilitation and stakeholder engagement. The following re...
2024-08-3028 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastBAQT with Jo Frances and Jonathan HunsleyThis BA Brew is AssistKD’s second BA Question Time. Many of the questions focus on role clarity, a hot topic for BAs. Mike Williams is host, with expert panellists Jo Frances and Jonathan Hunsley providing the answers and insights. This week’s questions are: ❓What is the difference between a Business Analyst and a Business Architect? ❓What is the difference between a Business Analyst and a Service Designer? ❓How can a growth mindset support change professionals in general? ❓ What are the overlaps between a Business Analyst and a Functi...
2024-08-1627 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastThe Benefits, Risks and Opportunities of AI in Business Analysis (Feat. Donald Farmer)If you’re concerned about the impact of Artificial Intelligence on your business or your job, this BA Brew is a must-watch. Debra Paul and Pete Thompson discuss the benefits, risks and opportunities with Donald Farmer – one of the foremost thinkers, researchers and presenters in the field. Topics discussed include: automating processes; cost savings; intellectual property; caring about the human element; inherent bias in AI; the need for new requirements; mitigating for unexpected adverse effects and more. Donald Farmer is a visionary data and analytics strategist with over 30 years’ experience designing data and analytics products. He has...
2024-07-1928 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastBravery in Business Analysis (Feat. Kay Hardy & Charlie Payne)This BA Brew is all about bravery, asking what bravery is and how we can develop it. Charlie Payne and Kay Hardy join the Brew Crew to try to answer these questions and more. The discussion includes: how elements of police training can also apply to business analysis; a great skiing analogy; building resilience; psychological safety; power poses; and more. During the BA Brew, Amy Cuddy’s TED talk Your Body Language May Shape Who You Are is referenced, and also her book Presence. #businessanalysis #businessanalyst #bravery #challenging #businesschange #bodylanguage #managingstakeholders #designthinking #BA
2024-05-1037 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastAgile Business Analysis (2nd Edition)If you are interested in Agile, you won’t want to miss this. This BA Brew is all about the second edition of ‘Agile Business Analysis: Practical guidance for IT professionals’ by Lynda Girvan and Debra Paul. Watch as the authors discuss what readers can expect from the revised and updated edition, including: ⭐ the latest Agile developments ⭐ new techniques ⭐ new thinking ⭐ real-life case-studies where experienced practitioners share challenges and lessons learned. The wide-ranging discussion covers organisational agility and the role of the BA; the relevance of the Agile Manifest...
2024-04-2625 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastBAQT - The Brew Crew answer your Questions!In this special edition of our BA Brew, it’s BA Question Time! Mike Williams presides as AssistKD’s Fiona Bruce with Debra Paul and Jonathan Hunsley as the panellists. This week’s questions are: ❓Should BAs understand commerce/business? ❓How can a BA team of 20 balance sharing knowledge and experience as a team with time on their own projects? ❓How do I bring together a group of professionals working in and around the business analysis space together to add value to the business? ❓Business Analysts often feel overlooked. How can we rai...
2024-04-1233 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastHow to start your BA career (feat. Timothy Clark & Michelle Shakesheff)In our latest brew Jonathan Hunsley and Nicole Alderton are joined by Michelle Shakesheff and Tim Clark of Close Bros to share their thoughts on getting started in a BA career. They share insights on the different modes of learning available to build the professional toolkit, the importance of mentoring and stepping out of your comfort zone to take on new challenges. Handily, they also delve into the sources and benefits of ongoing self-development. With so many structured routes into business analysis, including the BA apprenticeship, perhaps gone are the days of simply drifting into...
2024-03-2824 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastThe Human Element (Feat. Helen Holder)The pandemic and new technology have changed the way we work, but how are we responding as humans? Special guest Helen Holder considers the human element of our professional lives in this fascinating BA Brew. Topics include: how we respond to our work, interact with stakeholders and deal with change; the personal attributes of BAs, business architects and service designers; investing in personal growth; the strength inventory; resilience and the growth mindset and more. Helen Holder is a Senior Business Analyst and BA of the Year Finalist 2022. ...
2024-03-1522 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastBusiness Analysis and AI (Feat. John Wisner)Artificial Intelligence: a powerful ally with mind-blowing potential… or a threat to our jobs? @John Wisner joins the BA Brew crew for a lively discussion on where we are right now, and the possibilities and challenges ahead. Topics include: AI and automation; brainstorming with AI; machine learning and data analytics; asking AI the right questions; why BAs need to be aware of the new AI tools, and more. John Wisner is Managing Principal Consultant at Capco, Business Analysis Capability Lead and BA of the Year Finalist 2022. If you enjoyed this BA Brew you ma...
2024-03-0133 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastBlack-Belt Business Analysis (Feat. Daniel Squire)Daniel Squire and Jonathan Hunsley are passionate about business analysis… and martial arts (Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Taekwondo respectively). In this fascinating BA Brew, they discuss some of the misconceptions about martial arts and the many parallels between the disciplines. Topics include: situational awareness; control, discipline and practice; inclusivity and respect... and much more. Daniel Squire is Principal Business Analyst at Just Eat. If you enjoyed this BA Brew you may be interested in ‘The Black Belt BA’ article in our Learning Zone, based on a talk of the same name given by Jonathan Hunsley.
2024-02-1630 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastThe Benefits of the In-House Consultant (feat. Liz Calder)In... or out? This BA Brew looks at the differences and common ground between the in-house and the external BA consultant roles. Our special guest is Liz Calder, highly experienced BA and IIBA UK Chapter President. Topics covered include: different agreements and expectations; skills sets; organisational culture and implicit rules; organisational knowledge; financial considerations; investing in your skills and knowledge... and much more. #BAconsultancy #internalBA #businessanalyst #businessanalysis #BA #businessconsultant #IIBA #BAskills #businessanalysisconsultancy #stakeholderengagement #organisationalculture
2024-02-0230 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastThe Institutionalised BA (Feat. Chris Pyatt)When business analysts work at one organisation for a long time, they can lose sight of their value and transferable skills. They may even find it difficult to move on. This BA Brew In this BA Brew Chris Pyatt talks about how BAs can regain their professional confidence. Topics covered include: the ‘comfort zone’ of subject matter and organisational expertise; the skills you have which you may take for granted; taking the ‘leap of faith’; engaging with the BA community; the value of training, certification and mentoring and much more. Chris Pyatt, BA at DWP Digital...
2024-01-1922 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastNeurodiversity: The BA Survival GuideNeurodiversity is a word we hear, but how much do we really understand it and recognise neurodivergence in ourselves and others? Only by better understanding can we support and champion people with neurodiversity and appreciate what they can offer the BA community. In this awareness-raising BA Brew, guests Nicola Pinkney and Paul Haywood share some personal insights and helpful tips. You can find AssistKD’s recent article based on Nicola and Paul’s inspiring talk at BA Conference Europe 2023 here. Helpful organisations: Daisy Chain (Autism and Neurodiversity Support) Mind (Ment...
2024-01-0531 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastBA Brew Christmas Message 2023In AssistKD’s 2023 BA Brew Christmas message, the Crew compare their favourite Christmas songs and share their highlights of the year.
2023-12-1511 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastThe Strategy and Architecture Rant (Feat. Vicky Rothwell)Editor Tom found this BA Brew ‘mind-blowing’ and we think you will too. If you have ever felt ‘put in your box’ as a BA, you need to hear what Enterprise Architect and Strategy Delivery Consultant Vicky Rothwell has to say. Vicky challenges business analysts to push for a strategic role, to be bold with our BA toolkits and to build our understanding of business architecture and service design. Topics covered in this BA Brew include: The overlap between the business architecture and business analysis toolkits. The rise of the strategic business analyst. Business architec...
2023-11-1732 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastSelf Assessment and Development Tools (Feat. Corrine Thomas)Self-assessment and development tools provide useful insights which can benefit individuals, teams and organisations. This BA Brew features special guest Corrine Thomas (business analysis leader, coach, mentor, writer and author) and looks at some of the tools including MBTI Myers Briggs, StrengthsFinder, Engage, Strengths Profile, the Strengths Deployment Inventory and Mindset Advantage. Useful links: Myers Briggs Experts in business psychology and personality assessment (themyersbriggs.com) StrengthsFinder StrengthsFinder 2.0 | EN - Gallup Engage https://www.engagecoach.com/ Strengths Profile What are your Strengths? | Strengths Profile Strength Deployment Inventory Strength Deployment Inventory 2.0 | Core Strengths Assessment Mindset Advantage Mindset Advantage Psychometric - Matthew Syed...
2023-11-0323 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastStepping Beyond the BA Toolbox (Feat. Pip Hall) Newly crowned IRM UK Business Analyst of the Year winner Pip Hall joins the Brew Crew this week. Pip talks about her BA journey and those key life skills to be found beyond the standard BA toolbox. The inspiring and heartwarming chat covers what we can learn from our hobbies, interests and relationships; the importance of empathy and why Pip thinks we should take our whole selves to work. You may enjoy the following BA Brews: BA Brew Episode 26: Stakeholders (Feat. Pip Hall) BA Brew Episode 47: Creating Purpose and Meaning (feat. Joe Newbert)For all the latest business analysis, business...
2023-10-2031 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastConcise and Coherent Communication (Feat. Miruna Ursache) In this fascinating BA Brew, business consultant and communications specialist Miruna Ursache talks about the different ways we communicate, and the power of understanding where our personal communication styles, habits and patterns come from. Miruna is the founder of training and coaching company Refraiz, and has led fun, interactive communications workshops at the BA Manager Forum and the BA Conference Europe. You may enjoy the following BA Brews: BA Brew 48: The Benefits of One Pagers BA Brew 61: 50 Mighty Words to Grow Your Business For all the latest business analysis, business change and service design content, including bitesize learning videos, please...
2023-10-0623 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastThe Secret Life of Presenters: Practical Presentation TipsBetween them, our Brew Crew have decades of presentation-giving experience. In this eye-opening chat they share some useful and practical advice… and a few embarrassing stories. From testing the tech to the best throat pastilles, discover some handy hacks and hints to make sure your presentations go without a hitch. Find out about AssistKD’s Presentation Skills course here. Plan for success in your BA career with AssistKD’s FREE Career Planner tool. For all the latest business analysis, business change and service design content, including bitesize learning videos, please like, subscribe and share this podcast. #businessanalysis #businessanalyst #presentations #presentationskills #busine...
2023-09-2219 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastBrainy Glue: A Novel Approach to Business Analysis (feat. Ian Richards & Filip Hendrickx)It took Ian Richards and Filip Hendrickx five days and an entire wall of Post-It notes to create the storyline for the business novel Brainy Glue. It then took them three years to write it, around their many commitments. In this BA Brew, Filip and Ian talk about the main themes explored in the novel – business analysis, innovation and change… and how they managed to weave 25 BA techniques into the 52 chapters. Topics discussed include: Understanding people’s drivers to inform stakeholder engagement; co-creating change; bringing the BA role to life in novel form and more. Ian Ri...
2023-09-0820 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastHow to Become a Business Analysis Professional (Feat. Victoria Banner and Joe Newbert)How do you become a BA professional? In today’s BA Brew, the crew talk about their respective journeys and business analysts can gain certifications, increase their skills and raise the standard of their business analysis work. Topics covered include: Training and development in business analysis; the pros and cons of the multiple-choice question and the oral exam; the difference between qualifications and certifications; the many routes to becoming a BA; creating a tailored professional development plan; reflection and knowledge sharing; learning from failures and more. Plan your BA career path with AssistKD’s FREE and newly updated Career Planner tool...
2023-08-2534 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastThe AI Brew (Hosted by ChatGPT)🤖💼 The Future of Work: AI & Human Collaboration 🤝 This week's BA Brew is taking a futuristic turn, as we host an exclusive session led by a ChatGPT Avatar! Yes, you heard that right—a digital entity ready to explore, engage, and enlighten us on the potential and pitfalls of AI in the workplace. Join us to dive into topics like: How AI is reshaping industries 🏭 The balance between human intuition and machine efficiency 🧠⚙️ Ethical considerations in the age of automation 🎗️ Building a future where humans and AI thrive together 🌐 The above summary was written by ChatGPT. Further reading/viewing: Coded Bias (A Netflix documentary) Hello...
2023-08-1140 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastAdvice That Got Us Through Life (Feat. Julie Walker)You know you’ve had great advice when you remember it and feel inspired by it throughout your life. This week the Brew Crew and special guest Julie Walker share some valuable gems of wisdom – including how to eat an elephant (one bite at a time). Julie Walker is the author of the historical novel ‘Bonny & Read’, about the lives of the famous women pirates Ann Bonny and Mary Read. Further reading: By Julie Walker: Bonny & Read: The stunning new feminist historical novel for 2022
2023-07-2819 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis Podcast50 Mighty Words to Grow your Business (Feat. Felicity Cowie)Communications failure is behind most business disasters, where people are afraid to admit they don’t fully understand what they are supposed to be doing, and why. Luckily, our latest BA Brew guest is on the case. In this fascinating discussion, Felicity Cowie –communications consultant, multi-award winning investigative news journalist and former Panorama editor – shares useful insights from her decades of experience. Topics covered include: the power of stating what you are doing and why concisely, clearly and understandably; authentic communication and feeling safe enough to say ‘I don’t know’; making every word count; avoiding scope ‘creep’; the reassurance of repeating the...
2023-07-1436 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastImposter Syndrome: Are you an imposter in BA clothing? (Feat. Jo Fahy)This week our intrepid crew are joined by Jo Fahy to talk about Imposter Syndrome, something 80% of us admit to having experienced. The discussion includes what Imposter Syndrome is; the many ways it can manifest itself; personal experiences; gender and age factors; why a little self-doubt is useful but a lot is prohibitive; the power of being authentic; asking for feedback; silencing the inner critic and more. Jo Fahy is a Senior Business Analyst at the University of Manchester, and a member of the Young Business Analysts Senior Leadership Team. Further reading: Clance, P. R., & Imes, S. A. (1978). “The imposter ph...
2023-06-1623 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastBe More Pirate Feat. Alex Barker and Julie Walker This week we welcome two very special guests aboard the good ship BA Brew. 🏴☠️Novelist Julie Walker shares the incredible story of notorious female pirates Anne Bonny and Mary Read while facilitator, speaker and author Alex Barker encourages us to learn from the Be More Pirate’s pirate code (see below). Are you brave enough to find your inner pirate and challenge the status quo? Topics discussed include: what motivated Ann Bonny and Mary Read to challenge the norms; the freedom and equality of the pirate life; how the Pirate Code and questioning rules applies to innovation and change...
2023-06-0228 min
And Joe ShowFBA 001 AssistKD CEO Debra Paul Dives Into the Fourth Wave of Business AnalysisThe post AssistKD CEO Debra Paul Dives Into the Fourth Wave of Business Analysis appeared first on OneSixEight FM.
2023-05-2041 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastCustomer-centric Change (Feat. Sushma Sundaran)This week the Brew Crew discuss why the customer should be at the centre of any change initiative. Their special guest is Sushma Sundaran, a Senior Technology Delivery Manager at the Home Office, with extensive experience of customer-centric change. Topics covered include: listening to, understanding and meeting diverse customer needs; customer journey mapping; the customer experience; customer retention; the importance of shared values; the human touch; using CATWOE, the SARAH curve and more.
2023-05-1923 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastRE Practices (Feat. Karl Wiegers and Candase Hokanson)Karl Wiegers and Candase Hokanson join the Crew this week to chat about requirements practices. Answering the need for a shorter book on requirements, their new book ‘Software Requirements Essentials’ focuses on the 20 core practices essential for software and systems projects. Topics covered in the Brew include: the requirements engineering framework; modelling; why requirements matter; requirements management; the separation of elicitation and analysis; requirements in Agile projects; non-functional requirements and more. Candase Hokanson is a Business Architect at ArgonDigital. Karl Wiegers is Principal Consultant at Process Impact. Software Requirements Essentials: Core Practices for Successful Business AnalysisSoftware Requirements Essentials (softwarereqs.com)
2023-05-0528 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastThe BA Story (Feat. Lee Fewkes)Are you a business analyst with a story to tell? In this BA Brew, Lee Fewkes tells the Crew why he created The BA Story, where business analysts can share their BA stories and insights. Topics covered include: The power and connection of the personal story; how no two business analysts are the same; how it feels to reflect on your career challenges and achievements; the many roads to becoming a BA and more. You can find the BA Story website here: The Business Analyst Story (thebastory.com)
2023-04-2123 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastWhose Persona is it Anyway?How can you make your customers or end users feel real, empathise with them and better understand what they really want and need? In this Brew Kerry, Mike and Pete discuss the power of Personas, and how BAs can create and use them effectively. The chat covers: what are Personas; avoiding stereotypes; customer research; using photos and names; how Personas link to other techniques such as User Stories and Empathy Mapping; and more. If you’re interested in Personas you may be interested in watching AssistKD’s recent Service Design webinar on ‘Roles, personas and custom...
2023-04-0623 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastNeurodiversity (feat. Simon Platt)The topic for this latest BA Brew was suggested by Principal Business Analyst Simon Platt. A keen Neurodiversity Advocate, Simon addresses this sensitive and sometimes challenging topic, sharing his insights into and experience of Neurodiversity with the Brew Crew and wider BA Brew audience. Topics discussed include: What is Neurodiversity?; looking beyond labels; trust and psychological safety in the workplace; strategies for the individual; the 3 components of ADHD and more. AssistKD provides training, apprenticeships and consultancy services throughout the UK and internationally. Click here to view AssistKD’s extensive choice of classroom (virtual and face-to-face) and e-learning courses.
2023-03-2436 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastI'm a Business Analyst. How did that happen?Our latest BA Brew guest is the wonderful Fae Marcano, Business Analyst of the Year 2022. In this episode Fae and the crew talk about how they became business analysts and their experiences of the BA of the Year awards. Topics include: how Fae, Jonathan and Lisa became BAs; the ‘why’ of becoming a BA; the Business Analyst of the Year experience and why it’s worth entering; the joys of networking and knowledge sharing; why mentoring matters; promoting the BA role and much more. Fae may well inspire you to apply for the BA of the Ye...
2023-03-1027 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastBooks that change the way we workCan a book really change the way you work, or even how you look at life? The Brew Crew certainly think so. Watch this podcast to hear about the books that have made them think differently, and that they return to again and again for inspiration. Topics discussed include: how our reading choices evolve; people taking away different messages from the same book; books on self-awareness and mindset; books about dealing with change; insights from works of fiction; books with practical tips, frameworks and methodologies; consolidating learning by watching talks by authors on YouTube; Here...
2023-02-2415 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastThink Like a CEO (Feat. Byron Morrison)The new series of the BA Brew kicks off with a cracker of an episode. Author, life coach and business consultant Byron Morrison challenges us to learn from the CEO mindset in order to reach our full potential in life and in business. It’s inspiring stuff. Topics covered include: the decision framework; thinking holistically; risk aversion; the value of trying and failing; maintaining momentum vs. staying in your comfort zone; energy management; reflection; self-awareness and more. Byron Morrison is the author of bestselling business books The Effective CEO and Think Like a CEO. ...
2023-02-1029 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastStepping Out of Your Comfort Zone (Feat. Producer Tom)It’s our 50th BA Brew! To celebrate this momentous milestone Producer Tom finally steps out from behind the camera… but he’s not sure how comfortable he feels about it. From taking up bee-keeping to playing music on an open mic night the Crew share how they’ve stepped out of their respective comfort zones. And they discuss some useful strategies, including some from the business analysis toolkit. AssistKD provides training, apprenticeships and consultancy services throughout the UK and internationally. Click here to view AssistKD’s extensive choice of classroom (virtual and face-to-face) and e-learning...
2023-01-0622 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastMental HealthIt’s the last BA Brew of 2022 and this one’s incredibly inspiring. Coach, speaker, psychotherapist and mental health consultant Petra Velzeboer shares her extraordinary story and talks to the Brew Crew about looking after our mental wellbeing and how we can ‘check in’ with friends, family and colleagues. Topics covered include: Growing up in a religious cult; the recent rise in depression and anxiety; connection and a sense of belonging; taking small steps out of your comfort zone; setting boundaries; habit stacking; reflection vs. rumination; normalising talking about mental health; the work-life balance and much more. Pet...
2022-12-1630 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastThe Benefits of One Pagers (Feat. Chris Ingold)Now you can get everyone on the same page… literally. Chris Ingold joins the Brew Crew all the way from Melbourne to share his passion for the ‘one pager’. Topics covered include: The power of the one pager; A3 management; establishing the ‘why’ and the purpose; the misuse of small fonts and overcrowded PowerPoint slides; the one pager as a validation document; compatible BA techniques including Timelines, Scope, Process Mapping, Capability Maps, User Story Maps, the Value Chain and the ‘How Now Brown Cow’ technique. Chris Ingold is a digital expert, change agent and Head of Solutions D...
2022-12-0930 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastCreating Purpose and Meaning (Feat. Joe Newbert)What is your ‘Why?’. In this inspiring BA Brew, Joe Newbert joins the Crew to talk about how we can create purpose and meaning in our personal and professional lives. Topics covered include: Jacob Morgan’s framework for purpose and meaning; values driven leadership; bringing our personal purpose and meaning to work; finding consensus on purpose and values; intent-based leadership and helping others to find their purpose and meaning. The books recommended in this BA Brew are: The Future Leader by Jacob Morgan; Start with Why by Simon Sinek and The 8th Habit by Stephen R. Cov...
2022-11-2521 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastBusiness Service DesignWhat is Business Service Design and is it the next big thing? If you’re curious about this powerful new human-centred approach you will be interested in this BA Brew where Jonathan, Kerry and Kate share their thoughts on the subject.Topics covered include: Systems, Service, Design and Lean Thinking; Business Service Design tools, frameworks, techniques and more.AssistKD provides training, apprenticeships and consultancy services throughout the UK and internationally. Click here to view AssistKD’s Service Design courses.
2022-11-1120 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastDeveloping Positive Habits and BehavioursAssistKD’s Kate Biddle joins us for today’s BA Brew, her first as part of the Crew. It’s a good one, discussing how to break those bad habits and build positive behaviours instead. Topics covered include: the power of habits; self awareness; the habit loop; habit stacking; planning ahead; good BA habits and the value of moral support from friends, colleagues and family. Books recommended during the podcast are The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg, Atomic Habits by James Clear and The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey. Assist...
2022-10-2824 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastBuilding A BA Community (Feat. Louise Powell)It just takes one person to gather people together to help each other. Today the Brew Crew chat with Lou Powell about how she set up and grew the BA Crowd, a Meet Up group for her local BA community. Topics covered include: the value of community, how to get sponsorship, finding speakers and more. Louise Powell is a Senior Business Analyst at BGL Insurance and Co-founder of the BA Crowd. AssistKD provides training, apprenticeships and consultancy services throughout the UK and internationally. Click here to view AssistKD’s extensive choice of classroom (virtual and in...
2022-10-1417 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastYou Couldn't Make it Up!Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you’ve thought ‘You just could not make this up’? Today Jonathan, Mike and Lisa discuss their experiences as customers and as business analysts. They range from the sublime (luxurious upgrade, anyone?) to the ridiculous (a multi-million pound project with no agreed scope… two years in). Hear about Jonathan’s nightmare coach journey, Lisa’s broadband switch horror and Mike’s discovery of a business process involving a rubber-stamp and a shredder. You won’t be disappointed! AssistKD provides training, apprenticeships and consultancy services throughout the UK and internati...
2022-09-3023 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastBusiness Analysts - Leaders or Followers? (Feat. Emily Tom)Are BAs leaders or followers? Jonathan, Debbie and guest Emily Tom explore this challenging question in today’s BA Brew.Topics discussed include: the importance of context; why BAs are more than scribes or translators; the new vs. the mature BA; lifelong learning; giving back to the BA community; growing your skillset and challenging stakeholders.Regional Director of IIBA Americas Northeast region, Emily Tom is a senior consultant with over 18 years’ experience in business analysis and business change.AssistKD provides training, apprenticeships and consultancy services throughout the UK and internationally. Click here to view...
2022-09-1621 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastJob Crafting (Feat. Charlotte Axon)Have you heard about job crafting? It’s where you make small changes to and personalise your role to make the most of your strengths, passions and experiences. Charlotte Axon is an expert on the subject and shares her wisdom in this first BA Brew of the new season. Topics discussed include: the five types of job crafting; self-actualisation and job crafting in the face of the Great Resignation. Charlotte is Lead People Scientist at Tailored Thinking, a positive psychology, well-being and HR consultancy. For more advice, a free downloadable guide to...
2022-08-2622 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastThe Wonders of DataIn this latest BA Brew, the Brew Crew debate the value of data. Jonathan plays the role of Devil’s Advocate… can Debbie and Pete convince him that data is more than simply a means to an end?Topics discussed include: why data is fascinating; what data tells us; the difference between data and information; metadata; quantitative vs. qualitative data; data models; ethics and more.Participants: AssistKD’s Jonathan Hunsley, Debra Paul and Pete Thompson.AssistKD provides training, apprenticeships and consultancy services throughout the UK and internationally. Click here to view AssistKD’s extensiv...
2022-07-2230 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastThe Playful BA (Feat. Georgiana Mannion)If you want to see Mike Williams wearing a very bad wig and (later on) a horse’s head, you won’t want to miss this extra entertaining BA Brew. Georgiana Mannion, known for her ‘Playful BA’ talks, very generously shares her inspirational ideas on how to bring play, fun and games into your BA practice. Topic discussed include: how to energise a Teams meeting; branding your BA team; flipping the process-mapping process on its head; engaging exercises to generate ideas and solve problems; moving furniture around in the boardroom; using Lego and other tools for solution architec...
2022-07-0827 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastMoon, Rose, Fish. The ‘A, B, C’ of IT Business Analysis (Feat. Danny Kalkhoven)Moon, Rose, Fish is the English translation of Maan, Roos, Vis, a well known Dutch phrase connected to the early stages of learning to read and write. It’s the equivalent of ‘A, B, C’. In this episode the Brew Crew discuss the value of having a mental checklist of the basic elements when looking at the requirements of an IT system. Moon or Maan stands for the data model, Rose or Roos stands for how things look, the User Interface and Fish or Vis stands for the activities, rules and process changes to be specified in any IT...
2022-06-2429 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastImpactful Business Analysis (Feat. Christina Tan)As BAs and business change professionals, how can we make an impact in our organisations and the wider business analysis community? That’s the question the Crew tackle in today’s BA Brew, with the help of our guest Christina Tan (and freshly brewed coffee or tea of course). Topics covered include: Leaving a legacy; making an impact on multiple levels; the purpose of the BA; giving and receiving support, ideas and learning through the wider BA community; the value of curiosity. During the pod, the book ‘7 Habits of Highly Effective People’ by Stephen Covey is menti...
2022-06-1023 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastIf You Don't Do Politics, Politics Will Do You (Feat. Niven Postma)This week, the Brew Crew are joined by guest Niven Postma, author of the highly acclaimed book If You Don’t Do Politics, Politics Will Do You.“If you think your work speaks for itself… Think again.” Niven and the crew discuss how, whether we like it or not, we all have to navigate office politics. Niven shares her valuable tips, leaving the crew wishing that the book was available at the start of their careers.Participants: AssistKD’s Mike Williams and Lisa Hudson with Niven Postma, Author and Lecturer on office politics.AssistKD p...
2022-05-2029 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastThe BA Service Framework (Feat. Jamie Toyne)This week the Brew Crew are joined by guest Jamie Toyne, who explains how he has adapted the BA Service Framework to define and promote the services offered by his BA team.Topics covered include: how the BA Service Framework was developed (Debbie’s ‘lightbulb moment’); creating a common language to define the BA role; the shift from product focus to a service level view and the importance of “setting out your stall’ and selling your BA services.Participants: AssistKD’s Debra Paul and Mike Williams with Jamie Toyne, Digital Leader and Head of Business Analysis at...
2022-05-0624 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastNon-Functional Requirements (Feat. Steve Wright)Fuelled by freshly made coffee, Steve Wright and the Brew Crew discuss the difference between functional and non-functional requirements; why it pays to have non-functional requirements on the agenda from the start; the joy of checklists and more. During the chat Pete Thompson recommends the book Software Requirements Patterns by Stephen Withall, for its useful contextual checklists. Participants: AssistKD’s Mike Williams and Pete Thompson with Steve Wright, Business Analysis Mentor and Trainer at Reflect Ltd. AssistKD provides training, apprenticeships and consultancy services throughout the UK and internationally. Click here to view AssistKD’s ex...
2022-04-2223 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastBA Skills and How To Develop Them (Feat. Sarah Gale)In today’s BA Brew, our Crew talk with Sarah Gale about developing core business analysis skills, and how to use BA tools and techniques with confidence. Topics covered include softer skills including communication, relationship building and listening skills; business architecture; customer experience analysis and design thinking; mentoring and coaching; the need for BAs to sell their services; skills frameworks such as the Business Analysis Competency Model®; how to develop BA skills and which skills are transferable. During the chat, Jonathan mentions the book ‘Mindset’ by Carol Dweck. Participants: AssistKD’s Jonathan Hunsley and Kerry...
2022-04-0826 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastSoftware Development Pearls (Feat. Karl Wiegers)Karl Wiegers is back! In this latest BA Brew, Karl and the crew discuss his new book ‘Software Development Pearls: Lessons from Fifty Years of Software Experience’. Topics include quality (including Karl’s experience of 9th grade woodworking, where he learnt an important lesson about taking the time to ‘do it right’); estimating the time a project will take; the user centred vs. product centred approach to requirements; the value of the peer review process (setting the ego aside) and the necessity of multiple iterations in both requirements and design. Participants: AssistKD’s...
2022-03-2530 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastSystems Thinking (Feat. Dr Alison Rodrias) On the first of Season 4 of the BA Brew podcast, Systems Thinking comes under the spotlight. Topics covered by the Brew Crew and guest Dr Alison Rodrias include whether Systems Thinking can be learned; scenario and impact analysis; reductionist thinking; user stories and applying Systems Thinking within the BA role.During the podcast, Debbie refers to ‘Systems Thinking, Systems Practice’ by Peter Checkland.Participants: AssistKD’s Jonathan Hunsley and Debra Paul with Dr Alison Rodrias, scientist turned Business Analysis lead at Parkinson’s UK.Parkinson's UK is the largest charitable funder of Parki...
2022-03-1124 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastConfidence (Feat. Philippa Thomas)When speaking in public, challenging authority or dealing with negative feedback, business analysts need to feel and appear confident. But how do you build that confidence? In our Season 3 Finale, the Crew, with guest Philippa Thomas, come up with some top tips that include doing what you fear, visualising success and being selective about the criticism you pay attention to. During the podcast, Philippa mentions ‘Playing Big’ by Tara Mohr [Playing Big: A practical guide for brilliant women like you: Amazon.co.uk: Mohr, Tara: 9780099591528: Books], while Jonathan refers to ‘The 8th Habit’ by Stephen R. Covey...
2022-02-1132 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastThe Invisible BA (Feat. Stefan Bossuwé)When good business analysis happens nothing goes wrong, but there’s a danger that the extensive work behind a project running smoothly is not seen, understood or appreciated. Stefan Bossuwé joins the Brew Crew to talk about how, as a profession, we can turn the invisible BA into the visible BA. The chat touches on professionalism and competency; thinking holistically; the importance of the question ‘why’ and the idea of a platform or forum where BAs could share tangible, real-life examples of problems they have helped avoid and the money they have saved organisations. ...
2022-01-2825 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastThe BA Mindset (Feat. Fabricio Laguna and Christina Lovelock)Today’s chat over a brew is all about the BA mindset. Debbie, Christina and Fabricio discuss how the BA mindset extends much further than the business analyst role. Topics include curiosity and thinking analytically; how SWOT analysis has escaped professional boundaries; the danger of action for action’s sake and the value of sharing the BA mindset with others. Participants: AssistKD’s Debra Paul chats with Fabricio Laguna, business consultant, teacher and professional speaker and Christina Lovelock, BA leader and co-author of Delivering Business Analysis: The BA Service Handbook. AssistKD provides training, appren...
2022-01-1420 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastBusiness Analysis Apprenticeship (England)In this final podcast of 2021, the Brew Crew discuss the Business Analyst Level 4 Apprenticeship scheme. Guest Claire Carroll gives an employer’s perspective, while Kuldip Kang shares her experience of going through the 18-month programme. Topics discussed include the different styles of learning involved, time-management challenges and more. Listen to the end for some useful tips from our guests for apprentices-to-be and employers. Participants: AssistKD’s Debra Paul and Nicole Rayner. With Claire Carroll and Kuldip Kang from Allianz.
2022-01-0421 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastStakeholders (Feat. Pip Hall)GIVEAWAY COMPETITION ALERT! Listen or watch to the end of this BA Brew for some festive chat and our not-to-be-missed Christmas stocking filler competition. Taking the time to understand who stakeholders are and what they need is key to the success of any project. In this Brew, our intrepid crew chat with Pip Hall about why she dislikes the term ‘stakeholder management’, and discuss how BAs can establish, maintain and enhance relationships with stakeholders. Useful thinking techniques touched upon include CATWOE analysis, empathy maps, world view analysis, the Thomas-Kilmann conflict positions mode...
2021-12-1726 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastThe Solution Standoff (Feat. Karen Newnham)The Brew Crew are never shy about thorny issues, so were happy to rise to the challenge when Karen Newnham got in touch about the tricky topic of solutions. In recent years BAs have been advised to avoid talking about solutions, yet nobody wants to ‘shut down’ stakeholders. Mike, Jonathan and Karen discuss where the ‘anti-solution’ mindset comes from, and how to engage with stakeholders when they suggest solutions at an early stage in a project. Ideas discussed include reframing solutions, future-thinking and even role playing how a solution could play out (banana suits are not compulsory). Jon...
2021-12-0323 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastThe Benefit of Benefits (Feat. Simon Harbisher)Having just discussed the Business Case Necessity in the last podcast, this week the Brew Crew tackle the perfect follow up subject: the value and challenges of benefits planning and realisation. Jonathan, Sandra and guest Simon Harbisher (who approached AssistKD with the idea) discuss the importance of learning from successes and failures; the role of the business analyst as negotiator; POPIT; the danger of change resistance; the importance of communication and more. Make sure you listen out for the BA Brew’s first guest cat, India (nicknamed Villanelle as she is ap...
2021-11-1922 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastThe Business Case Necessity (Feat. Ian Richards)Another chance to put the business world to rights over a refreshing brew. This week our Brew Crew are joined by author and BA thought leader Ian Richards, to discuss the necessity for the business case. Debbie, Jonathan and Ian discuss the value of the business case; why there is some controversy with some saying the business case is ‘anti-agile’; the succinct vs. the detailed business case; who ultimately should have ‘ownership’ and the different approaches of smaller and larger organisations. Participants: AssistKD’s Debra Paul and Jonathan Hunsley. With Ian Richards, member of the BCS...
2021-11-0518 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastBusiness Architecture (Feat. Wouter Nieuwenburg)Mike and Jonathan welcome guest Wouter Nieuwenburg to talk all things Business Architecture. The crew discuss the differences between the Business Architect and Business Analyst roles and what happens in that ‘grey area’ where respective toolkits overlap.Topics covered include knowledge sharing, co-creation and collaboration; the Business Architect as the BA’s ‘independent, critical friend’; the pathway from BA to Business Architect and how the Business Architecture toolkit can benefit the Business Analyst.Participants: AssistKD’s Mike Williams and Jonathan Hunsley. With Wouter Nieuwenburg, Competence Developer and Business Analyst at PanCompany. Wouter is part of the team beh...
2021-10-2222 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastDesign Thinking Feat. Kay HardyThe Brew is back! Debbie and Jonathan launch Season 3 in style with guest Kay Hardy. The topic of the day is Design Thinking, an exploratory human-centric approach that offers a useful framework for business change. It’s all too easy to go back to the same BA tools time and time again. The crew talk about how Design Thinking helps BAs to refresh their approach, encouraging them to challenge assumptions, to elevate their thinking and to focus on people and outcomes. Related BA techniques discussed include the Double Diamond approach, Empathy mapping and the ‘5 Whys’. Don’t...
2021-10-0822 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastResilience (Feat. Corrine Thomas)It’s the Season 2 finale! In this episode the crew discuss Resilience with an expert on the subject, Corrine Thomas. Corrine talks about how BA tools can help build resilience at work and in our personal lives, for example the ‘Sarah Curve’ as a framework for dealing with emotions during times of change. Jonathan comes up with the term ‘Resilience well’, which Debbie thinks should be patented immediately. The team share their ways of dealing with difficulty including talking to trusted friends, box sets during lockdown, NLP techniques, having something to look forward to, running, meditation and even bee k...
2021-09-1027 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastThe BA Tools and Techniques Launch ChatThe crew are in fine form, celebrating the brand new edition of Business Analysis Techniques. With 123 tools and techniques for the BA to choose from, the skill is in knowing which to use in different contexts. MoSCoW, POPIT™, CATWOE, Johari Window and more… Debbie, Jonathan and Andrew share their favourites and those they think are underrated.They go on to discuss why some techniques are controversial and how the best can be applied to our day to day as well as our work lives. Andrew Kell ends the podcast with an exceptionally cheesy joke, which may (or may...
2021-08-2719 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastThe Culture Conundrum (Feat. James Robertson)Are you happy at work? It makes all the difference. Today the crew talk about the impact of workplace culture on our happiness and productivity. James Robertson – author, problem-solver and requirements engineering guru – is our expert guest. We discuss the differences between positive and toxic cultures; how measuring performance can be counter-productive; the importance of a supportive and confident team; Belbin’s team roles (https://www.belbin.com/about/belbin-team-roles) and more… including the cathartic benefits of a good old moan. Click here (https://www.amazon.co.uk/Happy-Work-Here-Understanding-Improving/dp/0989282066/ref=asc_df_0989282066?tag=bingshoppinga-21&linkCode=df0&hvadid=80127011834779&hvnetw=o&hvqmt...
2021-08-1321 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastThe Love of Learning (Feat. Sam Merrick)The best BAs are passionate about the subject and their specialisms, constantly updating their skills and techniques ‘toolkit’ and growing their understanding throughout their careers.Our guest on this BA Brew is the ever inspiring Sam Merrick, who talks to the crew about how he developed a hunger for learning, taking ownership of his career and self-funding many of the courses he has taken.Topics discussed include: the ‘virtuous circle’ of sharing learning; motivation and rewards; how to learn from life experiences; the importance of developing self-awareness and the importance of a great mentor.Partic...
2021-07-3016 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastThe Agility Illusion (Feat. Lynda Girvan)We’re joined by Lynda Girvan for a thought-provoking chat about what ‘Organisational Agility’ really means. The popular buzz-phrase ‘has been well and truly put to the test in the last 18 months, as businesses have adapted (or not) to changes brought about by the global pandemic. We discuss how business leaders have had to ‘walk the walk’ and how the Business Analysis toolkit can be used to challenge assumptions, change mind-sets and achieve successful outcomes. Participants: AssistKD’s Debra Paul, Jonathan Hunsley with Lynda Girvan, Head of Business Analysis at CMC Partnership Consultancy.
2021-07-1621 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastThe Thoughtless Design of Everyday Things (Feat. Karl Wiegers)The crew are joined by Karl Wiegers, who challenges us to think more purposefully about good and bad design. Indeed there is so much poor design to be found in the everyday that Karl has published a book on the subject. Lots to consider for any BA who is serious about championing the user and customer experience, and a wake up call for all requirements engineers. Buy Karl Wiegers' new book The Thoughtless Design of Everyday Things here https://tinyurl.com/54zvjave Participants: AssistKD’s Mike Williams and Jonathan Hunsley with software consultant and author Ka...
2021-07-0223 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastThe Business Analyst / Product Owner Conundrum (Feat. Geertje Appel)Move over Game of Thrones, in this episode of the BA Brew we discuss the sometimes dynastic struggle between the Business Analyst and Product Owner roles. Who will be King (or Queen) and will BAs truly rule the world one day? Listen in to find out. Participants: AssistKD’s Debra Paul and Mike Williams with Geertje Appel, Business Analyst and Trainer at Le Blanc Advies.
2021-06-1822 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastRequirements: Redundant or Relevant?The BA Brew crew get to grips with the tricky question of the necessity of requirements. They argue that, when engineered appropriately for the working context, requirements should stand the test of time and not be thrown out with the waterfall bathwater. Listen out for Jonathan’s mini-rant (pattern emerging here) and Debbie’s Use Case Diagram confession. One not to be missed! Participants: AssistKD’s Debra Paul, Jonathan Hunsley and Mike Williams.
2021-06-0417 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastThe Leadership Lowdown (Feat. Tazeem Wafa)Who better to discuss the key aspects of leadership with than the 2020 BA of the Year? No need then to shell out on a pile of leadership books (unless you want to impress with your Zoom background). ‘Hollow leadership’ is rightly called out and a simple word count will tell you just how important passion, empathy, trust and transparency are, particularly in troubled times. Participants: AssistKD’s Debra Paul and Jonathan Hunsley with Tazeem Wafa, Business Analyst Manager at the Bank of England and BA of the Year 2020.
2021-05-2119 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastThe Delivery DilemmaThe BA Brew crew tackle the age old dilemma of delivering immediate vs. longer term outcomes. If you think MVP is the ‘go to’ acronym of the day, you might want to think again. Prepare yourself for OMBO and for the very switched on cookies amongst you, OMBOC (Optimal Mutually Beneficial Outcome in Context) might become your new mantra. Listen on! Participants: AssistKD’s Debra Paul, Jonathan Hunsley and Mike Williams.
2021-05-0720 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastIs there a Future for Business Analysis?In our Season 1 Finale, what other subject could our illustrious foursome tackle but “Is there a future for Business Analysis?” Join us for an informed discussion on the integrity and necessity of the BA skillset. Listen out for the BA ‘awkward teenage years’ and just how BAs might save the planet. The revolution starts here! Participants: AssistKD’s Debra Paul, Jonathan Hunsley and Mike Williams with Adrian Reed of Blackmetric Business Solutions.
2021-04-0126 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastYoung BA Special (Feat. Emma Myers and Lauren Howes)For the those of you in need of a BA pick-me-up this podcast is for you. Learn about the Young Business Analysts (YBA) initiative and how this has grown from an initial idea to over 400 members in the space of only a few months. Lots of energy in the room and far too much fun. Sit back and enjoy hearing from the stars of the future; your profession is in good hands. Participants: AssistKD’s Debra Paul and Jonathan Hunsley with Emma Myers and Lauren Howes, two of the founders of the YBA group. Find out more ab...
2021-03-1923 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastReviewing ‘Switch’. By Chip and Dan Heath. (Feat. Jo Gray)We look at the book Switch by Chip and Dan Heath, recommended by our latest podcast guest Jo Gray. It’s a beast of a book but we look at the big themes and some well-thought out tactics for realising change. Listen out for the “bright spots” (a nice twist on the normal focus on problems) and Jo’s example of how powerful a visual demonstration of a situation requiring change can be. Participants: AssistKD’s Jonathan Hunsley and Mike Williams with Jo Gray, Senior Consultant at Socitm Advisory.
2021-03-0517 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastThe Failure Falsehood“Failing fast” is a software engineering term which has become part of management speak, but does this widely accepted mindset serve any real purpose? We challenge the term and discuss the better approach of “test and learn” where there’s an opportunity to reflect and to find alternative ways forward. Listen out for the Rice Krispie incident – one not to be missed! Participants: AssistKD’s Debra Paul, Mike Williams and Jonathan Hunsley.
2021-02-1919 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastThe Virtual Facilitator (Feat. David Beckham)Put the kettle on, the hot topic of virtual facilitation is up for discussion. There’s plenty to think about including the preparation, hard work, behaviours and props required for effective facilitation. Expect a few gems from guest David Beckham (not that one) along the way including Celebrity Squares and what he calls the ‘Depeche Mode’ moment… Participants: AssistKD’s Debra Paul and Jonathan Hunsley with David Beckham, Principal Consultant at ChuDo Consulting.
2021-02-0521 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastThe Networking NuanceAre you a natural networker or does it feel like a chore? Here the AssistKD crew discuss the joys (and perils) of networking in both face to face and virtual environments such as LinkedIn. There are top tips and important watch words along the way for people from all backgrounds. Listen on! Participants: AssistKD’s Debra Paul, Jonathan Hunsley and Nicole Rayner.
2021-01-2220 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastThe Value FallacyThink “value” is a word you can bandy around loosely? Think again! In our latest podcast we provide that ‘stop and think’ moment to consider what value really means for organisations and customers. The crew look at how value is co-created and the critical role the business analyst has to play in this process. Listen on… Participants: AssistKD’s Debra Paul, Mike Williams and Pete Thompson.
2021-01-0820 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastThe WFH ChallengeIn the new ‘normal’, for many of us our homes have become our offices. Join us for an honest discussion about the many joys, perils, frustrations and practicalities of working from home including the temptations of the biscuit tin. Expect a useful share of experience… and who knew virtual charades was a thing! Happy listening. Participants: AssistKD’s Jonathan Hunsley, Mike Williams and Nicole Rayner.
2020-12-1817 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastThe RACI RantResponsible, Accountable, Consulted, Informed. Could the RACI technique be the most misunderstood and underrated technique in business? In our latest podcast passions run high as we look at how making roles and responsibilities crystal clear is key to empowerment, collaboration and business success. Enjoy the listen. Participants: AssistKD’s Debra Paul, Mike Williams and Jonathan Hunsley.
2020-12-0419 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastWho Moved My Cheese? By Dr Spencer JohnsonIn AssistKD’s very first BA Brew we put the kettle on and kicked off by discussing Spencer Johnson’s famous book “Who Moved My Cheese?” and how it speaks to the role of Business Analyst. The book challenges “the way things have always been done around here” and is a timely prompt to rethink how we adapt to radical change. A lively 20 minute discussion, hope you enjoy it! Participants: AssistKD’s Debra Paul, Mike Williams and Jonathan Hunsley.
2020-11-2021 minBA Brew - A Business Analysis PodcastTrailerA trailer for AssistKD's BA Brew podcast, which is launching on Friday 20th November at 1030. Tune in to hear informal discussions about various topics relevant to business change professionals.
2020-11-1600 min