Why use a business analyst? 

Some business people don't really know why they need a business analyst.  This can be a difficult decision to make.  The easiest way to determine whether or not a business can benefit from a business analyst is to decide what the business wants to accomplish.  If there is a problem that cannot be pinpointed, using a business analyst can be beneficial.

Not all business analysts need to be called in from the outside.  There may be a qualified person in the organization who can meet the qualifications of a business analyst.  It may be a member of the IT department.  It may be someone who is familiar with the workings of all departments.  A quick search for qualified candidates will determine this question.

The business analyst can help formulate an action plan that allows stakeholders to determine exactly where the problem lies.  The Business Analyst can take on the task of narrowing down the issue through research and data.  Once the problem is discovered, the business analyst will be able to determine the best course of action.  He or she can write a project report outlining the steps necessary to achieve a predetermined solution.

A good business analyst will be able to liaise between departments.  He or she will be able to talk with each department.  Sometimes departmental teams may be hesitant or questioning.  The Business Analyst will be able to motivate teams.  He or she will be able to highlight the strengths of each individual.  This will allow the teams to approach each task aggressively.  The skilled business analyst will be able to articulate the needs of the stakeholders and the end user in a way that the IT department and others involved can understand.

Sometimes the stakeholders and the development team are on the same page but each interprets something different.  The skilled business analyst will be able to set things in motion so that the stakeholders and development teams can understand what is needed. 

If the business analyst doesn't ask questions and listen carefully, the entire scope of the project can be put at risk.  It's up to the business analyst to weigh all the facts and do the research necessary to make sure everyone understands what is being asked.  Once the teams know what is expected of them, the business analyst can keep each team informed of the others' performance and completion of the tasks set.

In the long run, the Business Analyst can be an asset to the company for many years.  He or she can establish a rapport with each team and department in the company for future project programs under development.  When a new technology is available, the business analyst is able to inform stakeholders of what needs to be done to integrate it into the company's operations.  It will be easier to get outside sources with someone who knows the project programs and what is needed to accomplish the task.  The experience of a business analyst will show up when it comes to leading a meeting to explain what is going on.  A company's vision can be designed by a skilled business analyst.