INTRODUCTION

Over the last twenty years business analysis has developed as a specialist discipline. During this time business environments have become increasingly dynamic requiring organisations to constantly review strategies and improve processes. Business models have changed, for example with the growth of IT outsourcing and the extension to off-shoring. There is no longer a perception that IT improvement is an end in itself but rather that IT must enable business improvement, and investments in technology must provide value for money. These changes have resulted in organisations employing increasing numbers of business analysts with the remit to ensure that business needs are clearly understood and requirements accurately defined.

In today's business world, there is a growing acceptance that business analysis provides organisations with expertise that is vital for business success. Business analysts are employed at various levels of seniority and with different areas of specialist knowledge. The role of the business analyst has been clarified and variants of the role identified. Development paths have been defined. There are business analysis qualifications and standards. In short, the business analyst profession has 'come of age'.

Assist Knowledge Development Ltd and The MatchettGroup have jointly developed a model to represent the development of the business analysis discipline. This model is the Business Analysis Maturity Model (BAMM^TM). This model is supported by a development model - the BAMM^TM Development Programme (BADP).

Slideshow for 'BA Comes of Age' seminar held at Lord's on 4 April 08