In this episode, Richard Larson helps us explore version 3 of the BABOK® Guide to understand how it can help you and your career.

After listening to this episode, you'll understand:

  • What changes have been made to version 3 of the BABOK® Guide
  • How to use the BABOK® Guide depending on where you are in your career
  • How to get the most out of the BABOK®

Show Notes

The Business Analysis Body of Knowledge® (BABOK® Guide) represents the evolution of the Business Analyst profession.  It creates better awareness in the industry and aligns the language and practice of business analysis.

The BABOK® Guide has gone through several iterations over the years.  The latest version, v3.0, is a huge leap forward.

Version 3.0 is almost double the size of the previous version.  It includes new guidelines added roughly 16 new for a total of 50 techniques.  Version 3.0 also adds five different perspectives that give a focus on different specialties within business analysis.

The BA Core Concept Model is also new to version 3.0 of the BABOK® Guide.  An important component of the Core Concept Model is value.  It reminds us of why we do our work . . . to add value to the organization.  This acts as a beacon so we can ask ourselves “Is what I’m doing now (or is this deliverable) adding value?”

 

Using the BABOK® Guide

You can (and should) use the BABOK® Guide differently depending on where you are in your career.

For practitioners new to business analysis, start by exploring the business analysis techniques.  That will allow you to get perspective on what techniques you can use in different situations.  From there, you can begin using some of the techniques and get some practice.

Later in your career, it can help you not only in understanding some key concepts, but also if you’re looking to earn a certification, the information is essential.

If you’re managing business analysts, you can use the generally accepted practices in the BABOK® Guide to mature your team.

Regardless of where you are in your career, the introductory chapters of the BABOK® Guide can really help you focus on some essential ideas.  The introductory chapters include key concepts and the Core Concept Model.

From there, you can pick and choose the sections to explore.  Read about tasks or technique as they come up in your work.

 

Listen to the full episode to hear all of Richard’s tips and advice about using the BABOK® Guide and certifications.

 

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Your Homework

Get a copy of the BABOK® Guide and read it, focusing on value.  Doing so will help you understand the value you provide in your role and shifts you toward becoming a value manager.

 

Links mentioned in this episode:

Richard Larson

Richard Larson

Founder and President of Watermark Learning

Richard Larson is Co-Principal, Founder, and President of Watermark Learning. He has over 30 years of experience in business, project management, business analysis, training,and mentoring. He has presented numerous workshops, seminars, and training classes since 1985 to over 10,000 participants on five continents.

IIBA®, BABOK® Guide, and Business Analysis Body of Knowledge® are registered trademarks owned by International Institute of Business Analysis. CBAP® and CCBA® are registered certification marks owned by International Institute of Business Analysis.

 

 

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