Course Description

The Agile way of working is becoming ever more popular in modern business. It’s a smart way to work, and so it makes sense for you, the business analyst, to get to grips with how you can contribute to the success of Agile development projects.

This course will help you do just that. Based on a true-to-life case study, you’ll use your existing business analysis knowledge and techniques and practise applying the Agile approach within a business analysis scenario. You’ll come away with a real understanding of how business analysis is applied within the context of the Agile philosophy.

You’ll explore the philosophy behind Agile, the methods and techniques used within business, and the principles that guide this way of working. You’ll also consider holistic and lean thinking, and how they can benefit your business.

Target Audience

Business analysts and anyone who needs a thorough practical knowledge of the role business analysis can play in the success of Agile development projects. Agile Business Analysis is also an Analytical Skills module on the BCS (ISEB) Advanced Diploma in Business Analysis.

Exam

During this three-day course, you’ll receive all the training you need to prepare for the BCS Agile Business Analysis Professional Certificate exam, which is held on the final afternoon of the course. A pass in this module will contribute to the BCS International Advanced Diploma in Business Analysis.

The exam is included as part of the course cost. The multiple-choice exam consists of 40 questions with a pass mark of 26 out of 40. Currently, the exam must be taken remotely using the BCS online proctoring service.

Course Content

The Agile Philosophy

• The history of Agile and Agile Software Development
• The Agile Manifesto
• Agile components (principles, methods & techniques)
• Agile in the business context
• Lean Business Analysis Service, system and Lean thinking)

Agile Principles

• Collaborative working
• Self-organizing teams
• Continuous Improvement
• Iterative development/Incremental delivery
• Plan for, and build in change

Agile Methods

• History of Agile Methods
• Linear (defined) Vs Agile (empirical) methods
• Evolution of Agile methods
• Agile methods – DSDM, UP, SCRUM, XP, Lean Software
• BA role in Agile

Understanding Stakeholders

• Stakeholder groups
• Understanding the customer
• Agile BA role in stakeholder engagement and management

Agile Modelling

• Purpose and principles behind Agile Modelling
• The hierarchy of models (business view to system component)
• Prioritisation using MoSCoW
• Decomposing and organizing business goals

Agile Techniques

• User stories and roles
• Managing requirements with the solution backlog
• Estimating story points
• Managing the iterations (Planning, aligning, traceability, velocity)

Agile BA Planning

• BA role in agile projects
• Storyboarding/scenarios/prototyping
• Creating a kanban board

Scaling Agile

• Constraining factors
• The system of interest