Part I

The Business Analyst’s Role in Strategic
Planning and Enterprise Analysis

To evolve from an internal business and technology consultant to a member of the executive leadership team, the business analyst must be equipped to make project selection decisions that align with greater organizational strategies. To make these decisions, the business analyst must fully understand both strategic planning processes and portfolio management practices that take place in the enterprise analysis phase of the business solution life cycle (BSLC). Part I defines the first two phases of the BSLC—the strategic planning phase and the enterprise analysis phase—and focuses on the role of the business analyst during those phases.

The executive leadership team begins to set the stage for strategic change during the strategic planning phase of the BSLC. Chapter 1 defines strategic planning, discusses why it is needed, and explores the business analyst’s role in planning activities.

After planning, strategies are translated into operational terms through a portfolio of programs and supporting projects during the enterprise analysis phase of the BSLC. Chapter 2 defines portfolio analysis and portfolio management, and discusses the emerging role of the business analyst in those activities.