According to the CCBA® and CBAP® Certifications Study Guide1, there are three business analysis planning techniques that a business analyst can use to help plan business analysis processes. These are:
Process modeling: This technique involves creating a graphical representation of the business analysis activities, inputs, outputs, dependencies, and roles. It helps to visualize and communicate the scope, sequence, and flow of the business analysis work2.
Progressive elaboration: This technique involves planning the business analysis work in an iterative and incremental manner, based on the level of detail and certainty available at each stage. It helps to accommodate changes, risks, and feedback as the project progresses3.
Structured walkthrough: This technique involves presenting and reviewing the business analysis deliverables with the relevant stakeholders, such as the project team, the sponsor, the subject matter experts, and the quality assurance team. It helps to ensure the quality, accuracy, completeness, and alignment of the business analysis work2.
Decision analysis, on the other hand, is not a business analysis planning technique, but a technique for assessing proposed solutions. It involves identifying, evaluating, and comparing the possible alternatives based on predefined criteria, such as costs, benefits, risks, impacts, and preferences2. Decision analysis is used to select the best solution that meets the business need and the stakeholder expectations3. References:
2: BABOK Guide, section 10 Techniques, page 378-431
3: CCBA® and CBAP® Certifications Study Guide, section Task: Plan Business Analysis Approach, page 1
1: CCBA® and CBAP® Certifications Study Guide1, section Business Analysis Planning Techniques, page 1
