Introduction Digital transformation is a critical aspect of modern business operations, enabling organizations to stay competitive in an increasingly digital marketplace. It involves leveraging digital technologies to optimize business processes, streamline operations, and improve customer experiences. However, successful digital transformation requires careful planning and execution, particularly when it comes to software development. Digital transformation enables companies to roll out new products faster and more efficiently while giving users access to services from almost anywhere. Mainte ..read more

Previously I have written about strategy related techniques using the Business canvas model and SWOT.  Another technique I have previously used that can also be useful is called Scenario planning. This can also be used to identify the transformational needs within an organisation to ensure it stays relevant. The outcomes of this exercise are a set of plans to ensure that the highest risks to the organisation’s survival are identified and addressed.  It involves looking at the risks well into the future which then gives time for any mitigating changes to be recognised and made.  ..read more

Introduction Business planning involves setting goals for a company and determining strategies to achieve them. Crucially, it guides the organization towards growth and success with a clear plan. In this process, key individuals such as company executives, department heads, and sometimes external consultants are pivotal. They work together to shape the company’s direction, manage resources, and establish deadlines for goals. This collaborative approach ensures everyone focuses on shared objectives and understands their role in the company’s future. Strategies Outcomes As a result of this plann ..read more

Culture is the behaviours, beliefs and attitudes of a group of people.  A company’s culture is central to its ways of working, mindset and capability.  Culture is often the least visible but the most powerful factor for influencing change. Ensuring the right culture is in place is imperative when embarking on significant changes. It should be an integral part of the strategy for implementing major transformations. To plan for culture changes you must investigate the following themes. Vision Company values Success measures Capability gaps Risk appetite Vision The first step involves ..read more

Building a successful business analysis practice requires careful planning, strong leadership, and a commitment to quality. A highly motivated and skilled team is essential for delivering consistently high-quality projects, gaining recognition within the organization, and increasing the overall value of the team’s work. One of the first steps in building a successful business analysis practice is to develop a training strategy. This strategy should identify the specific skills and knowledge areas that team members need to develop to perform their jobs effectively. The training plan should also ..read more

Handling Transformation with a Target Operating Model is launched and open for enrolment! You can enrol by going to the following link – https://businessbullet.thinkific.com/courses/target-operating-model-launch The first chapter is now completely FREE. Here’s what you’re going to get: 7 modules consisting of workbooks, videos, interviews with other industry experts, forum discussions, templates, case study examples and a live session over 6 weeks. What makes something a Target Operating Model (FREE CHAPTER) Students will be able to define a target operating model, why it is needed, who is i ..read more

What is a SWOT analysis? SWOT stands for Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats. It is a useful tool for assessing a company. From an internal perspective it helps to understand what needs to be done to make the most of its strengths and weaknesses that may need to be overcome. From an external perspective it looks at the opportunities in the marketplace and what threats could make the company non existent if not addressed. This then enables decisions to be made based on the findings. Figure 1 : SWOT grid When would you use SWOT analysis and what value does it bring? It’s a simple t ..read more

Business analysis is a dynamic field that offers a diverse range of career pathways. With cross-transferable skills in analysis, business, and communication, business analysts are well-positioned for future career progression. Here are some of the many exciting career opportunities available in this field: Business analysts can move into more senior roles within Business Analysis such as senior business analyst / lead business analyst / principal business analyst / head of business analysis. Other alternative paths using the business analysis skillset are the following: Systems Analyst: System ..read more

This video is aimed at stakeholders who are planning or writing an RFP (Request for Proposal) and would like some guidance on putting one together or evaluating the responses. You can also access by click the link here. See below for the transcript. Penny Pullan Hi, I’m Penny Pullan, and I’m here with Helen Winter. Helen is an author and consultant who has both written RFP requests for proposals, but also been involved in responding to them over many years. And she’s going to take a bit of time today just to help you. If you’re about to write an RFP or in the middle of it, then her insights s ..read more