5 Big Ideas That Lit Up BBC 2025
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and may not reflect the perspectives of IIBA.
From thought-provoking discussions on the future of work to practical strategies for growing your career, Building Business Capability 2025 in Phoenix, Arizona, proved once again why it’s the go-to event for business analysis professionals looking to stay ahead of the curve.
Held from June 9 to 12 at the Sheraton Phoenix Downtown, this year’s event delivered everything we’ve come to expect from BBC—engaging speakers, fresh perspectives, and meaningful connections.
Here are five noteworthy moments that resonated with attendees and left a lasting impression this year.
1. The Future of (Business Analysis) Work: A Panel That Delivered
In a world where the only constant is change, understanding the future of work is critical, especially the work of business analysis.
IIBA President and CEO Delvin Fletcher hosted a thought-provoking expert panel featuring Laura Robey, Roger Burlton, and Tim Coventry to unpack how trends in AI, agile, and product and project management are reshaping the business landscape. Their discussion moved beyond theory into real-world application, highlighting how business analysis professionals can lead with curiosity and adaptability.
One key takeaway? Business analysis is becoming more critical than ever. By thinking systemically and responding to change, business analysis professionals can help organizations navigate complexity and uncertainty.
2. Please Hold: A Fresh Take on Outcome-Driven Thinking
One of the most anticipated highlights of the conference was the launch of Please Hold: The Power of Outcome-Driven Thinking by Fabrício Laguna—a business novel that thinks differently.
Blending engaging storytelling with real-world business insights, Please Hold takes readers into the heart of corporate innovation through the eyes of a professional determined to spark cultural change. The book offers a practical roadmap for fostering innovation, driving transformation, and achieving sustainable outcomes, whether in the boardroom or beyond.
Fabrício was on site to sign copies, much to the delight of curious attendees and longtime fans of The Brazilian BA. If you didn’t grab your copy at the event, don’t worry—a free preview edition is available, and you can now purchase the full book in the IIBA Bookstore.
3. AI + Business Analysis = Futureproof
A year on from their own book launch, Angela Wick and Tim Coventry took the stage with an urgent message: the future is already here, and it’s powered by AI.
In their session, “Futureproof: The Future of Business Analysis with AI,” they shared how AI is transforming the business analysis toolkit—automating routine tasks, revealing hidden patterns, and supporting smarter strategic decisions. Attendees got an exclusive look at their AI Accelerator Framework, a practical approach to adopting analysis practices that work with AI rather than against it.
The main takeaway from the session was clear: when business analysis and AI come together, the combination becomes a powerful driver of value, insight, and agility. As AI capabilities grow, so does the opportunity for business analysis professionals to lead transformation.
Those ideas struck a chord with the audience, selling out every copy of Futureproof: Amplifying Agility with AI and Insightful Business Analysis at the event. But don’t worry, you can purchase yours here.
4. Take Control of Your Career
Jared Gorai, Director of Chapter and Member Engagement at IIBA, delivered a wake-up call to business analysis professionals: don’t wait for your next opportunity—create it.
In his dynamic session, Jared shared how to build a personal brand, develop future-focused skills, and stay relevant in a fast-moving industry. With practical, no-fluff advice, he encouraged attendees to view their careers like a product, one that needs continual refinement, visibility, and positioning.
This session reminded everyone that no matter where you are in your career, taking ownership of your growth is the smartest investment you can make.
5. Sweet Treats, Popcorn, and Real Connection: A Celebration of Community
BBC 2025 wasn’t just about ideas, though. It was also about people coming together.
The conference included IIBA’s annual member reception, where attendees came together over sweet treats to celebrate the global community. The energy was high, the laughter flowed, and the sense of community was unmistakable.
From casual hallway conversations to intentional networking moments, this year’s event reminded us that the heart of business analysis is connection. Whether you’re a newcomer or a long-time IIBA member, the conference offered the chance to meet like-minded professionals, exchange ideas, and build lasting relationships.
If you missed out this time, start planning for next year. Stay tuned for an official 2026 conference date and location, which will be announced soon!
In the meantime, continue to get involved, stay connected, and keep exploring the restless and dynamic world of business analysis.
Join IIBA today for exclusive access to tools, resources, and events designed to support your professional growth year-round.
About the Author
Rosalyn Tan eats, lives, and breathes social media. With more than seven years of experience in the field, working in different industries from hospitality to beauty and accounting, she joined IIBA in 2018 as our resident social media guru.
