The Updated Business Analysis Standard: What You Need to Know
Business analysis is always on the move, and so are the tools and resources supporting professionals in the field.
On a recent episode of Business Analysis Live, IIBA Product Manager Tyler Kenny joined yours truly to discuss the latest edition of The Business Analysis Standard. Continuously updated and always valuable, the Standard can make your business analysis practices sharper and smarter (and your workload lighter). What’s not to love?
Our discussion peeled back the layers on how the latest updates bring a more practical, accessible guide for anyone engaging in business analysis. Whether you’re at the top of your game or just tiptoeing into the field, our conversation is packed with useful nuggets on making your analysis efforts more impactful.
Curious about business analysis changes and how you can plug them straight into your role? Stick around, this one’s for you!
What Is the Standard?
Imagine having a crisp, 60-page playbook that spells out the core principles and practices of business analysis. Now imagine not having to explain a massive 500-page guide to your colleagues while they quietly panic. That’s the brilliance of the Standard.
Unlike its big sibling, the BABOK Guide, the Standard is designed to be approachable for a broader crowd. Whether you’re a business analysis professional, a product owner trying to find your feet, or a leader in need of a quick reference, the Standard is your go-to resource. It lays the groundwork for what business analysis is all about, why it matters, and how to apply it everywhere from startups to global enterprises.
Oh, and fun fact—this is already the third iteration since late 2022. That's right, it evolves faster than your favourite app's update cycle!
Why Was the Standard Updated?
Can we level with you? The 500-page BABOK Guide is a masterpiece, but not everyone has the time (or stamina) to deep-dive like that. The updated Standard, on the other hand, is the cheat sheet that everyone wanted but didn’t know they needed.
Also, it’s not just about condensing words. This is a living resource. Think of it as an organism that adapts to the constant ebb and flow of the business world.
Here’s the best part: the latest updates were crafted based on feedback from nearly 200 volunteers, expert reviewers, and a village of thoughtful comments. Throughout one year, workshops and discussions helped identify what was working, what needed improvement, and how business analysis was changing.
And don’t worry, the next evolution is already in the works because, as we all know, business analysis never sleeps.
What’s New in the Standard?
The updated Standard builds on past editions while making strategic improvements to ensure it aligns with how business analysis is practised today:
- More bite-sized: At just 60 pages, this version provides a clear, foundational understanding of business analysis—without the complexity of previous guides
- Easy to digest: Simplified language makes this a global asset for professionals whose first language isn’t English or those who don’t perform business analysis work
- No gatekeeping: Business analysis isn’t reserved for business analysis professionals—product owners, consultants, and leaders, this one’s for you too
- Leadership appeal: The Standard’s update talks directly to decision-makers who need actionable insights into the value of analysis
- Harmony with BABOK Guide: Instead of competing, this Standard plays nice with the BABOK Guide—introducing core concepts while pointing to deeper resources for those who need them
How to Use the Standard
Alright, so now you’ve got this shiny, up-to-date resource. What do you do with it? Here’s how to make it your secret weapon.
- Start the right conversations: Explaining what business analysis really does is often half the battle. The Standard helps you bridge communication gaps and impress even the toughest stakeholders.
- Make it your toolbox: Take what works for your role, industry, or project, and leave the rest. Flexible? You bet.
- Level up professionally: Whether you’re starting out or looking to refine your approach, the Standard is your career companion. To all the leaders out there, it can even help you better understand what business analysis professionals bring to the table.
By using the Standard, you’re not just checking off tasks. You’re helping to shape how business analysis evolves. Remember, this is a living and collaborative resource informed by your hard-won insights. Pat yourself on the back for that one.
Adapt to Today
The updated Standard is exactly what you need to streamline your work and impress stakeholders (and maybe even your boss). The Standard is all about adapting to today’s challenges while preparing you for tomorrow’s surprises.
Want more insights and practical tips like these? Subscribe to Business Analysis Live for thought-provoking conversations where business analysis meets today’s speed of change. Don’t just listen, get involved! Share your thoughts, pitch a topic, or join the lively chatter around business analysis trends and practices.
And don't forget, downloading the Standard for free is just a click away. Why wait? Go ahead and make it part of your toolset.
Now, get out there and show business analysis who’s boss!
About the Author
Susan hosts Business Analysis Live to discuss business analysis topics and answer questions from the live audience. There's a backlog of upcoming topics and she's happy to take suggestions. Add a comment to one of our videos to suggest a topic you would like Susan to cover in an upcoming episode or connect with her via email at live@iiba.org.
