A business analysis plan is a comprehensive document that outlines the approach, activities, and deliverables for conducting business analysis within an organization or project. It serves as a roadmap for the business analysis effort, ensuring that the necessary analysis is performed systematically and effectively. The plan typically includes the following key elements:
Introduction and Background: This section provides an overview of the project or initiative, including the business case, objectives, and scope.
Business Analysis Approach: This section describes the overall approach to business analysis, including the methodology, techniques, and tools to be used. It may also outline the roles and responsibilities of the business analysis team and stakeholders.
Requirements Management: This section outlines the process for eliciting, analyzing, documenting, and managing requirements throughout the project lifecycle. It may include details on requirements gathering techniques, traceability, and change management processes.
Stakeholder Engagement: This section identifies the key stakeholders and their roles and responsibilities. It also outlines the communication plan and strategies for stakeholder involvement and collaboration.
Business Analysis Activities: This section details the specific business analysis tasks and activities to be performed, such as process analysis, data analysis, gap analysis, and solution assessment. It may include a work breakdown structure (WBS) or schedule for these activities.
Deliverables: This section lists the expected deliverables from the business analysis effort, such as requirements specifications, process models, data models, and other relevant documentation.
Risk Management: This section identifies potential risks associated with the business analysis effort and outlines strategies for mitigating or managing those risks.
Quality Assurance: This section describes the processes and procedures for ensuring the quality of the business analysis deliverables, such as peer reviews, validation, and verification techniques.
Resource Management: This section outlines the resources required for the business analysis effort, including personnel, tools, and budget considerations.
Assumptions and Constraints: This section lists any assumptions made during the planning process and any known constraints that may impact the business analysis effort.
Timeline and Milestones: This section outlines the high-level timeline for the business analysis effort, including key milestones and deadlines.
Review and Approval: This section describes the process for reviewing and approving the business analysis plan itself, including the responsible parties, timelines, and criteria for approval. It may also outline the procedures for managing changes or updates to the plan throughout the project lifecycle.
By creating a well-defined business analysis plan, organizations can ensure that business analysis activities are aligned with project objectives, stakeholder needs are addressed, and the necessary resources and processes are in place for a successful analysis effort.