Information Systems Business Analyst

Overview

IS (Information Systems) Business Analyst Overview

IS (Information Systems) Business Analyst apprentices are taught how to investigate business situations, identify and evaluate options for improvement and define the features required by organisations. They'll understand and present solutions on how information systems can be used to improve operational efficiency, and support acceptance testing to ensure that the proposed solution meets the defined requirements.

To achieve their IS Business Analyst apprenticeship, apprentices must:

• Submit a portfolio of evidence showing how they have applied the knowledge from these modules to projects and activities in their workplace.
• Complete their formal End Point Assessment, which comprises: a synoptic project to showcase knowledge and skills from across the apprenticeship; a review of their portfolio of evidence; and a final interview with an independent EPA assessor.

Successful IS Business Analyst apprentices go on into roles such as an IS Business Analyst, IT Business Analyst, Business Systems Analyst, Requirements Analyst/Engineer and Business Process Analyst.

Technical Competencies

Upon completion of their IS Business Analyst apprenticeship, individuals will be able to:

• apply structured techniques to investigate wants, needs, problems and opportunities
• document the current situation and apply relevant techniques to structure information
• assist in the recommendation of business and IS changes
• model business situations with clearly-defined boundaries using contemporary modelling techniques and digital modelling tools
• analyse business process models to identify opportunities for improvement
• redesign business process models using different scenarios and different solution models
• analyse, validate, prioritise and document functional and non-functional requirements for business situations
• identify data requirements relating to business improvement
• assist in the management and controlled change of requirements
• create data models to illustrate how data is represented within a business system
• revise the data model in accordance with different proposed solutions
• compare current and future state business situations with a view to developing a roadmap for business improvement
• define acceptance tests for business change and IS solutions
• identify stakeholders impacted by a proposed change, understand their perspectives and assess how their interests are best managed
• assess and document the drivers, costs, benefits and impacts of a proposed business change

Technical Knowledge and Understanding

Upon completion of their IS Business Analyst apprenticeship, individuals will understand:

• how to conduct internal and external environmental analysis of an industry domain
• how business change and system development lifecycles work, including the use of appropriate methodologies and impact of organisational culture
• the role of the IS Business Analyst and its relationship with other roles on a business change initiative including those with system development responsibility
• the value of Business Analysis in improving the IS system performance of an organisation
• what is meant by IS Business Analysis and the stages of activity that constitute it
• the procedures, tools and techniques that can be used to conduct all stages of IS Business analysis
• the approach to investment appraisal, benefits realisation and management
• the purpose and value of quality assurance techniques
• the role and application of contemporary modelling software and techniques in modelling the current and proposed business processes
• how to scope, plan and manage Business Analysis tasks
• how to document options, proposals and plans arising from a specified IT Business Analysis assignment and the sign-off process
• the importance of communicating effectively and in a timely manner with a range of stakeholders during an IS Business Analysis assignment

Underpinning Skills, Attitudes and Behaviours

• logical and creative thinking skills to help solve business change challenges
• analytical and problem solving skills within IS and business change environments
• ability to work independently and to take responsibility appropriate to the role
• can use own initiative in a range of IS business change situations
• a thorough and organised approach: planning analysis activities in line with business priorities
• ability to work with a range of internal and external people impacted by IS business change
• ability to communicate effectively in a variety of situations such as IS business change workshops and interviews
• maintain productive, professional and secure working environment within relevant organisational and legislative requirements

Funding

£18,000

Level

This is a level 4 apprenticeship.

Professional Recognition

This apprenticeship is recognised for entry onto the register of IT technicians confirming SFIA level 3 professional competence and those completing the apprenticeship are eligible to apply for registration.

Duration

The duration of this Firebrand apprenticeship is 16 months. Because this period involves both training and the final End Point Assessment (some of which must be carried out in the workplace), employers need to ensure the apprentice’s contract covers the full programme duration.

Registration to the Register of IT Technicians (RITTech)

Once apprentices have completed their apprenticeship they are officially recognised by the British Computer Society (BCS) for entry onto the Register of IT Technicians, confirming SFIA level 3 professional competence.