Business analysis is the process of understanding how a business works, it involves collecting, organising and analysing data from various sources to develop insights that help businesses become more efficient and grow.
The discipline of business analytics is quite broad and can be applied in many different areas of an organisation. It is commonly used in departments where process analysis and optimisation are needed, such as marketing, finance, operations, and IT.
In marketing, business analysts may use their skills to identify customer behaviours, trends and patterns that can be used to develop effective marketing strategies. In finance, they may look at financial data to identify areas of cost savings or opportunities for increased profits. In operations, they may analyse processes to identify areas where production can be improved and help make operations management and business processes more efficient. Finally, in IT they may investigate new technologies that can be used to enhance the business.
Business analysts may also be involved in the implementation of any of these solutions. This could include developing training programs for staff or assisting with software development projects.
In addition, they may be called upon to provide support in other areas such as budgeting or project management.