In 30 seconds
- Bridges business needs and the team, continuously.
- Helps write and split stories and acceptance criteria.
- Supports the Product Owner rather than replacing them.
How the role changes
| Traditional BA | Agile BA |
|---|---|
| Large specification up front | Just-in-time detail |
| Hands off documents | Works with the team daily |
| Signs off requirements | Helps the team discover them |
Daily activities
- Facilitating refinement and splitting stories
- Writing acceptance criteria with the team
- Analysing data, processes and rules
- Mapping journeys and story maps
Working with the Product Owner
The Product Owner decides priorities; the BA helps make items clear and ready. In Scrum, the BA is one of the Developers.
Myth vs reality
Myth · Agile has no place for BAs.
Reality · Analysis skills are valuable; the format changes.
Myth · The BA is a proxy Product Owner.
Reality · The Product Owner keeps decision authority.
Myth · BAs only write documents.
Reality · They facilitate discovery and conversation.
FAQ
Is the BA part of the Scrum team?
Yes, as one of the Developers.
What skills matter most?
Facilitation, splitting work and asking good questions.
Can a BA become a Product Owner?
Often, with added decision authority and product focus.