Discussions Posted On: Can a Developer Make a Good Business Analyst?

Jamie

Jamie — Fri, 06 May 2011 03:12:18 +0000

Of course you can, developing is a bit like learning a new language. Choose the language you’d like to learn (C#, VB, C++, Java are the common ones).

Just like using a travelers dictionary, google or buy a book for examples and tutorial on the language and get started.

When you think you’ve learnt enough words to speak a few sentences, put them into action (start coding). There are hundreds of web sites with tutorials and syntax examples.

You will need some sort of compiler to cut and test your code depending on the language you’ve chosen.

Try building something simple first. Your BA background should help you understand the logic and mapping to get you started.

The more you can speak (code) the better you will be. You will need to gain reasonable experience before you are employable for this job.

Santosh

Santosh — Wed, 04 May 2011 15:23:10 +0000

I am currently a BA. Off late I have realised that coding interests me a lot. So can I make the transition into the role of a developer. To develop the application for which i have gathered the requirement or consulted for should be quite satisfying.

Jamie

Jamie — Mon, 11 Apr 2011 23:54:27 +0000

I agree. By understanding the SDLC process, you will already be on right track at the very beginning. Knowing what to look for and how you will or can’t manipulate the data is a big head start already.

IT Career Coach

IT Career Coach — Mon, 11 Apr 2011 16:32:17 +0000

Jamie:

I agree with your answers to Tejas Mehta … however even when SDLC is not involved, the Business Analys (BA) should endeavor to learn the terms / terminologies relevant to that Software Development process, won’t you agree?

IT Career Coach

IT Career Coach — Mon, 11 Apr 2011 16:30:03 +0000

I agree with Jamie … a Business Analyst does not have to be a developer (good or bad) in other to be a Business Analyst … however like Jamie pointed out, learning the SDLC process and having a strong understanding of the phases, activities, challenges, terms and terminologies involved in constructing Software will help you

Best Wishes

Jamie

Jamie — Mon, 28 Mar 2011 04:45:39 +0000

Hi,
I’ve been developing software for over 15 years now and have decided to become a BA in software development.

As far as your question goes, in my opinion the answer is no. However, as a software developer I have worked hand in hand with BA’s, PM’s and everyone else involved in the SDLC.

Also I know where to expect “brick walls” and other challenges within a project from a developers point of view.

Knowing the correct questions to ask, alternative procedures,functions and data gathering concepts can put you a step ahead.

This is only valid when SDLC is important in the project.

Tejas Mehta

Tejas Mehta — Tue, 08 Feb 2011 05:07:40 +0000

Hello,
I’m a propective Business Analyst (BA) and have some doubts to be cleared.
Is it necessary that BA, need to be a good developer and should have excellence in any coding language?
Thanks in advance for your understanding and reponse.
Regards,
Tejas