Business Analyst job profile: The perfect mix of IT and business?

Imagine you could bridge the gap between two worlds - the analytical world of IT and the strategic world of business. This is exactly what a business analyst does by acting as a central interface between these areas.

With a unique combination of technical skills, business know-how and strong communication skills, this profession is not only versatile but also extremely sought after. But what exactly does an IT business analyst actually do?

The central role of a business analyst is to act as an intermediary between IT and business areas, analyzing processes and making strategic recommendations to promote efficiency and goal achievement within the company.

But why is this job so crucial for companies? And could this career be the perfect move for you?

In this article, we take a closer look at the job profile of an IT business analyst. We'll show you why this job offers the ideal combination of IT and business and why a job as a business analyst might be just the thing for your future!

What are the tasks of a business analyst?

As a business analyst, you will analyze business processes and take on requirements engineering - or to put it more simply: requirements management. Your diverse responsibilities will include coordinating complex tasks, developing solutions and managing collaboration between different teams.

Your task is to precisely identify, analyze, prioritize and precisely formulate the requirements for processes and IT systems. In doing so, you consider the needs from the perspective of both your company and the customer.

You act as a central interface between management, specialist departments and IT. Your work will extend across various business units, so you will work closely with different teams to achieve the company's goals.

Your job involves more than just analysis - after a thorough assessment of the current situation, you will develop concrete solutions to make structures and processes more efficient and implement innovative, solution-oriented approaches.

At the same time, you will be responsible for recording the requirements and expectations of the various stakeholders, evaluating them and preparing them in the form of solution concepts. Conducting in-depth analyses and managing requirements processes are crucial to the success of any project.

And that's not all: you accompany the technical implementation to ensure that the concepts developed are successfully put into practice.

Tasks of an IT business analyst at a glance:

As a business analyst, you are a central interface within the company. Your main tasks include:

• Understanding business needs: You dive deep into business processes to identify the real challenges and goals of a company.

• Analyzing data and processes: Using various techniques, you will identify optimization potential and develop concrete solutions for more efficient processes.

• Communication between IT and specialist departments: You translate the requirements of the specialist departments into a language that IT can understand and vice versa to ensure smooth collaboration.

• Collaboration with IT teams: You coordinate the implementation of technical solutions to ensure that they support the company's strategic goals.

• Optimize and design processes: You make a significant contribution to the development of new or the improvement of existing IT systems and business processes.

• Quality assurance: You are often involved in the testing phase to ensure that the solutions developed meet the original requirements and deliver the desired quality.

Is a business analyst purely an IT job? The clear answer: No!

The job of business analyst (BA) is often mistakenly assigned exclusively to the IT department. But this is a misunderstanding. While the BA plays a crucial bridging role between specialist departments and IT and must have a deep understanding of technical contexts, he or she is by no means a pure IT specialist.

The role of the business analyst is central to the entire organization, as they develop and implement innovative strategies. The development of solution-oriented approaches to mastering business requirements and supporting digital transformation is an essential part of their tasks.

The core competence of a business analyst lies in understanding business processes, analyzing requirements, identifying problems and developing solutions that create real added value for the company.

They act as interpreters between different languages and ways of thinking, translating business needs into technical specifications and vice versa. This requires strong communication skills, analytical thinking and the ability to look at complex issues from both a business and technological perspective.

In short, the business analyst is an interdisciplinary expert whose role extends far beyond the boundaries of pure IT and is essential for the success of the company in many areas.

Where can you work as a Business Analyst?

The job opportunities as a business analyst are extremely varied, as your specialist knowledge is in demand in numerous areas. There are numerous jobs and offers for business analysts in various industries. Your potential employers are often

• Large companies and corporations: here you will support complex business structures and contribute to the optimization of internal processes.

• System houses: You will work on the development and implementation of IT solutions that are perfectly tailored to customer needs.

• Consulting and technology service providers: In this role, you will help companies to develop and implement customized strategies and technical solutions.

• Established online companies: Especially in the digital economy, you will be in demand to analyze processes and create innovative solutions for scaling and further development.

You can also work in a variety of different industries, including

• Logistics: helping to optimize supply chains, processes and IT systems.

• Finance: Analyzing and improving financial processes and developing technical solutions for banks, insurance companies and financial service providers, with finance and controlling as key areas of specialization for business analysts.

• Insurance: Business analysts are essential for transforming complex products and processes into digital solutions to ensure the future viability of insurance companies.

Regardless of the area, as a business analyst you are a key figure when it comes to combining technical and business requirements and future-proofing companies.

How do I become a business analyst?

The path to becoming a business analyst is varied and usually requires a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical experience.

Career changers with relevant industry experience and a strong interest in IT can also be successful in this field. Further training and certifications, such as from the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA) or IREB (International Requirements Engineering Board), can not only deepen your specialist knowledge, but also significantly improve your career opportunities.

You will often gain practical experience in junior positions, as an intern or by working on projects, where you will get your first taste of requirements analysis and process optimization.

What should I study to become a business analyst?

There is no single best way to become a business analyst. The job profile requires a unique mix of IT and business skills. A bachelor's degree in business or information technology is often the basic requirement. However, in addition to the right degree, specific qualifications and practical experience are also crucial for a successful career start.

Here are some degree programs that provide an excellent foundation:

Business informatics: The direct route

This is probably the most straightforward route. A Bachelor's degree in Business Information Systems lays a solid foundation for all the necessary qualifications. Here you will learn how business processes work and how IT systems support them. You are optimally prepared for the interface function as a business analyst.

Business administration (BWL) with a focus on expanding knowledge

A business administration degree gives you a deep understanding of business processes and markets. If you specialize in areas such as digitalization, process management or business analytics, you will develop the necessary IT affinity and analytical skills that are so important for business analysts. A Bachelor's degree and relevant certificates or further training are often the basis here. Remember: practical experience has a significant impact on your career.

Computer science: the technical foundation

A pure computer science degree will give you the technical skills you need. However, to get started as a business analyst, you would also need to acquire business knowledge. This can be achieved through internships, further training or a suitable Master's degree, for example in business informatics. Here too, experience is the key to a successful career start and further career steps.

Industrial engineering: Technology meets business

This degree course combines engineering with economics. A bachelor's degree in industrial engineering provides a solid foundation for many industries. It gives you a good understanding of technical processes and their impact on business. This can be a great advantage, especially in areas such as manufacturing. Here too, practical experience plays a crucial role in your career development.

Data Science / Business Analytics: Specialized and future-oriented

More and more universities are offering specialized Bachelor's and Master's degree courses in data science or business analytics. A Bachelor's degree in these subjects provides a solid foundation. These courses are strongly data-driven and provide you with in-depth knowledge of statistics, programming, data analysis and visualization - all essential skills for modern business analysts. Here too, relevant professional experience is crucial for a successful start and further career opportunities.

Whichever path you choose, the combination of solid knowledge and practical application will make you a sought-after business analyst. Are you already on one of these paths or are you still thinking about which one is right for you?

Is there training to become a business analyst?

Traditionally, there is no direct, state-recognized vocational training to become a "business analyst" in the sense of a dual training program in Germany, such as that for industrial clerks or IT specialists.

What hard and soft skills do you need as a Business Analyst?

As a business analyst, you act as an interface between IT and specialist departments. This requires a unique mix of technical, methodological and social skills. Strong communication skills and sound qualifications are particularly important. In addition, experience and the individual requirements of the candidate play a central role in professional success and growth within the organization.

The work of a Business Analyst spans various business areas, with a focus on developing solutions and solution-oriented approaches in project and business process optimization.

Process and analysis skills, effective requirements management, a clear focus on strategic goals and the ability to meet all requirements and show flexibility are of great importance in day-to-day work. A well-known saying - "Trust is good, control is better" - underlines the need to ensure both control and efficient communication in all phases of business analysis.

Here is an overview of the most important hard and soft skills:

Hard skills (professional and technical skills)

Requirements management (requirements engineering):

This is the be-all and end-all. You must be able to identify, analyze, structure, model (e.g. with UML or BPMN) and precisely document requirements. This includes techniques such as interviews, workshops and writing user stories. Sound analysis and process optimization are crucial to developing effective solution concepts for the organization. Qualifications, experience, clear communication and the ability to work efficiently in the project are essential.

Process analysis and modeling:

The ability to understand business processes, represent them graphically (e.g. with BPMN 2.0) and recognize potential for improvement is central. The analysis and modeling of business processes form the basis for the development of effective and solution-oriented approaches. Qualifications, experience, the ability to work in a team and a strong focus on strategic goals are also crucial here.

Data analysis and modeling:

Basic knowledge of SQL for querying data, the use of data visualization tools such as Tableau or Power BI and a basic understanding of statistics are essential. Sound analyses are the basis for developing effective solutions. In addition to the right qualifications and relevant experience, clear communication and an efficient way of working in the project are also important here.

Use of tools and software:

You should be fit in dealing with requirements management tools such as Jira or Confluence, project management tools and of course the MS Office Suite, especially Excel. These tools play a central role in the development and implementation of solutions. Qualifications, experience and teamwork are crucial in order to use these tools effectively.

Industry knowledge:

A deep understanding of the industry you are working in (e.g. insurance, financial services), especially a sound knowledge of finance and controlling, is essential to better understand specific business needs and develop relevant solutions. Qualifications, relevant experience and your suitability as a candidate are crucial here.

Basic understanding of IT architectures and technologies:

Even if you don't program yourself, you should understand software development processes, system integration and database concepts. In a modern organization, the importance of information technology and a clear IT strategy for project success continues to grow. Appropriate qualifications and experience are essential for this.

Soft skills (personal and social skills)

Communication skills:

As a BA, you are a translator. You need to be an active listener, able to formulate complex issues clearly and concisely - both to IT specialists and business managers. Strong communication skills in meetings, emails and presentations are crucial. This also includes moderation and presentation skills.

Analytical thinking and problem solving:

The ability to break down complex problems into smaller parts, recognize logical connections and find creative solutions is a core competence. Sound analysis forms the basis for effective solutions. Your qualifications and experience play a decisive role here.

Negotiating skills and persuasiveness:

You will often have to mediate between different interests. Finding compromises and being able to present your proposals convincingly is crucial here. Clear and efficient communication is essential for successful negotiation skills.

Organizational talent and time management:

Managing projects and requirements effectively and meeting deadlines is essential for success in any organization. Qualifications and experience will help you to successfully master the diverse tasks and challenges.

The ability to take criticism and adapt:

The IT world is fast-paced. You need to be open to feedback and be able to adapt quickly to new situations, technologies and requirements. Your qualifications and experience play an important role in your critical faculties.

Ability to work in a team and empathy:

Good cooperation with all stakeholders is essential, as teamwork often takes place across departments. You must be able to understand and consider the perspectives of others. Relevant qualifications and experience are crucial for teamwork and effective collaboration.

Care and attention to detail:

Precision in requirements documentation and data analysis is crucial to avoid errors. Appropriate qualifications and relevant experience as a business analyst are essential here.

Proactive thinking and initiative:

Be proactive, recognize potential problems early and propose solutions on your own. The right qualifications and relevant experience are crucial to be proactive and effective.

The combination and balance of these skills is what makes a successful Business Analyst. An ideal candidate for this position will bring analytical thinking as well as relevant qualifications and several years of experience to implement strategic improvements within the organization.

What certifications are there for business analysts?

There are a number of recognized certifications for business analysts that not only underpin expertise, but depending on qualifications and experience, can also significantly enhance career opportunities. Certifications play a crucial role in a candidate's success and growth within an organization, as they promote development and support positioning as a competent business analyst.

The most important and well-known are

International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA) Certifications:

• ECBA (Entry Certificate in Business Analysis): The entry-level certificate for individuals with little to no experience in business analysis. It covers the basics of the BABOK® Guide.

• CCBA (Certification of Capability in Business Analysis): For business analysts with 2-3 years of relevant experience. It deepens the understanding of the application of business analysis principles.

• CBAP (Certified Business Analysis Professional): IIBA's highest certification for experienced business analysts with over 5 years of practice. It confirms comprehensive expertise in all knowledge areas of business analysis.

• IIBA-AAC (Agile Analysis Certification): A specialized certification for business analysts working in agile environments.

International Requirements Engineering Board (IREB) Certifications:

• CPRE (Certified Professional for Requirements Engineering) Foundation Level: This internationally recognized certificate focuses on the fundamentals of requirements engineering (requirements elicitation, analysis, documentation and validation). A very good starting point for anyone who wants to work in this field.

• CPRE Advanced Level: Offers in-depth training in specific areas such as "Requirements Modeling", "Requirements Management" or "Elicitation & Consolidation".

Certificates from IHKs and other educational institutions:

Many chambers of industry and commerce (IHK) and private educational institutions offer certificate courses that prepare students for the role of business analyst or cover specific aspects such as "Business Data Analyst (IHK)" or "AI Specialist for Business Analytics (IHK)". These are often practice-oriented and teach sought-after skills. To participate, candidates are expected to have relevant qualifications, practical experience and a willingness to engage with current methods and tools.

Project management certifications (relevant, but not specific to BA):

• PMP (Project Management Professional) from PMI (Project Management Institute): Although this is a project management certification, it is very valuable for business analysts who work closely with project managers or take a lead role in larger projects. Both the right qualifications and relevant experience are crucial for this.

• Scrum Master / Product Owner certifications: For BAs working in agile teams, certificates such as Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) or Certified Product Owner (CSPO) are helpful in understanding agile principles and roles. Here too, existing qualifications and relevant experience play a decisive role.

The choice of the right certificate depends on your current experience, your career goals and the specific area in which you would like to work as a business analyst.

Conclusion: Your future as a business analyst?

The job of a business analyst is much more than just an interface function - it is a dynamic and crucial role in today's business world. You bridge the gap between the requirements of business and the possibilities of IT, make processes more efficient and thus actively drive the digital transformation of companies.

With a unique blend of analytical thinking, strong communication skills and a flair for technical and business contexts, you are a sought-after expert as a business analyst.

Whether you are fresh out of university or have already gained professional experience in a related field, there are many ways to get into this exciting job. So if you're looking for a career where you can master new challenges every day and use your skills in a dynamic environment, then becoming a business analyst could be just the thing for you!

Are you ready for the next step? We are always looking for talented Business Analysts to join our team. Take a look at our current vacancies - maybe your dream position is already waiting for you!