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Training Course Summary:

In the past, information systems were justified on the grounds of efficiency as they helped to save money. It is now recognised that effective information systems are critical to the overall success of the business and the way it operates. As a result, managers are increasingly demanding that information systems provide business benefits and assist them in achieving their strategic, tactical and operational objectives.

It is essential that analysts take a wider business perspective if they are to function effectively in this changing environment. They must be able to work with senior management to identify business issues and suggest how these can be tackled through the innovative use of information systems. This is becoming even more critical with the increasing use of the Internet. The analysts must provide real benefit to the organisation by adopting a business-led approach.

Pre-Requisites:

It is assumed that delegates have basic systems analysis skills and an understanding of how the business functions.

Who Should Attend:

Experienced analysts who are closely involved with users in identifying how information systems can make the business more effective and provide competitive advantage.

Training Course Overview/Content:

Managing change
Business Analyst as a change agent.
Case study and exercises.

Introduction
Benefits of the business led approach to system development.

Organisational analysis
Structure.
Planning and control techniques, including SWOT, financial ratio analysis and competitive forces analysis.

Business planning
Hierarchies of objectives.
Strategy and plans.
Corporate strategy and information systems.

Information needs
Wants and needs.
Management decision making.
Objectives and information needs.

Defining processes
Top-down analysis.
Business events.
Reactive versus proactive processes.
Value chain analysis. RAEW matrix.

Defining data
Subject area diagrams.
Scoping data model.
Major entities.

Identifying systems
Characteristics of a system.
CRUD matrix.
Affinity analysis.

Investment appraisal
Cost benefit analysis.
Evaluating system effectiveness.
Evaluating the impact on competitive advantage.

Risk assessment
Types of risks.
Ranking risks.
Control.

Qualifications:

None