Business Analyst jobs - Main Region

Business Analyst Jobs

What does a Business Analyst do?

Business analytics is the process of gathering and analysing data to determine how it can be used to improve the efficiency of an organisation. Business Analysts are responsible for bridging the gap between IT and the business using data analytics. The results are used to assess processes, determine requirements and deliver validated recommendations to key stakeholders within an organisation.

What skills does an IT Business Analyst need to have?

In the age of big data, there is no ceiling when it comes to the importance of business analytics. Irrespective of the size of an organisation, analytics is being used to determine how data can be used to have a positive impact on an organisation. This can be achieved in several ways including improving efficiency, increasing revenue, enhancing productivity, or discovering new ideas. An IT Business Analyst is required to have a range of skills throughout the process to assess, determine and deliver outcomes.

Business Analysts are expected to contribute as quickly as possible. In the initial stages, a Business Analyst must be able to understand IT processes such as networks, databases, and other technologies to effectively discover the context of a project. Similarly, they utilise interpersonal and consultative skills to conduct stakeholder analysis. This allows a Business Analyst to discover the expectations of primary stakeholders and the key reasons behind a project.

Once the requirements of a project have been determined, a Business Analyst should be able to provide a clear, concise and actionable list of detailed requirements. Being able to define the scope of work will ensure that the appropriate analysis is conducted to achieve the desired outcomes. Strong business acumen and knowledge of business analysis models will help you stand out in this aspect.

Analytical thinking and excellent problem-solving skills are more required than desired. A key component of an IT Business Analyst role is to recommend solutions that will help an organisation achieve its goals. Bridging the gap between IT processes and the business may include the modification of processes, services, products, or software. A Business Analyst should subsequently be able to assess the value created by the solution, effectively communicate the findings and recommendations along with suggesting any complementary projects. Successful Business Analysts are detail-orientated and proficient at delivering a high level of accuracy.

Business Analyst job responsibilities

Gather and analyse critical data
Discover primary business objectives by analysing processes, technologies and systems
Process mapping: Provide clear, concise project plans and effectively manage them
Liaise with other IT professionals such as developers, administrators and system architects to ensure solutions are correctly implemented
Build, develop and maintain strong working relationships with internal and external stakeholders
Utilise excellent communication skills to manage expectations, maximise output and present critical information such as recommendations
Identify areas of improvement by outlining problems, opportunities and solutions which are to be reported back to stakeholders

Skills and experience employers are looking for

The drive for constant improvement has seen organisations turn to analytics in the pursuit of gaining an edge over competitors. Moreover, the rapid progression of technological advancement has resulted in IT becoming a critical component of any organisation. We have found that the Business Analyst skills and experience employers require fall under two categories:

Technical Skills
- SQL Proficiency
- Solutions Development
Fundamental Skills
- Research
- Problem Solving
- Communication

MySQL is the world’s most popular database and SQL the standard programming language used in relational databases. SQL can execute queries, retrieve data, record insertion and deletion along with create and update databases. Proficiency in SQL allows a Business Analyst to understand the relationship between data sets in a database, which can be used to enhance data flow and create more efficient information systems.

Being able to display experience in systems development will be recognised as a valuable skill by employers. The process of being able to evaluate requirements, select the appropriate solution and implement it successfully is what employers are looking for.
The ability to recognise problems and find solutions are core fundamental skills which successful Business Analysts have. An IT Business Analyst should be skilled at improving, modifying, or creating new information systems. Understanding data is presumed by employers while critical problem-solving skills and the capacity to manage multiple tasks are considered invaluable.

Employers have indicated that an underrated asset of an excellent IT Business Analyst is communication. IT systems can be difficult to understand for key stakeholders who do not possess technical knowledge. In many cases, the IT Business Analyst is seen as the bridge and translator between IT systems and an organisation. Excellent interpersonal skills and strength in presenting recommendations are fundamental to the success of a Business Analyst.

What type of employers hire Business Analysts?

The list of organisations seeking the expertise of an IT Business Analyst is growing. It comes on the back of an increasing reliance on technology and a wider range of industries utilising information technology systems. You will find that in many cases the types of employers seem unrelated. This further emphasises the importance of an IT Business Analyst and has created roles in many of the following areas:

Information Technology – There are a considerable number of avenues for an IT Business Analyst to remain in the technology sector. Communication is not as essential in this space as fellow IT professionals are familiar with technical terms. Strong technical and problem-solving skills are in demand in these roles.
Financial Services – The amount of IT professionals employed by the financial services sector continues to grow. An increase in online transactions and automated systems have created a substantial amount of Business Analyst jobs.
Manufacturing – New technologies require new processes in the ever-evolving manufacturing industry. Consequently, the need for development, maintenance, and use of technological systems has been further enhanced.
Mining – Great opportunities for those with solution architecture skills.
Construction – As the role of technology becomes more significant in construction, employers are looking to close the gap between business and IT. A strong understanding of business processes and excellent communication skills will have you well placed.
Public Administration – The public sector has been relatively slow to adopt digital technologies. It means that IT Business Analyst jobs exist across all levels of government (local, state, and federal).
Ecommerce/Retail – An IT Business Analyst can be a genuine asset for any organisation that is exclusively online. Ecommerce businesses are constantly looking to design, build, test and integrate new systems. Experience in Agile environments, ERP solutions or as a Systems Analyst will help you stand out to these employers.

Other industries offering IT Business Analyst jobs include logistics, telecommunications, marketing, and engineering among others.

Business analytics tools and software Business Analysts use

Business Analytics Software: Google Analytics, Tableau, Excel
Business Management Suite: Oracle NetSuite or equivalent
Communication Platforms: Email, Slack, Teams, Zoom, Google Meets etc
General Software: MS Office or equivalent
Programming languages: SQL

We strongly advise that you list all software or tools that you are proficient in as they may help you stand out to employers in a specific industry.

How much do Business Analysts earn?

With more data available to organisations than ever before, there is great demand for effective IT systems and processes. This has created a large amount of Business Analyst roles across a broad range of contrasting industries. Consequently, salaries vary depending on the industry, responsibilities, and expectations. For our latest guide on typical IT Business Analyst salary packages, please refer to our ‘Hays Salary Guide’.

How to become a Business Analyst in Australia?

A bachelor’s degree in business administration, information science, information systems or a related field will provide a good foundation.
Identify your transferable skills and unique qualifications to help your positioning. Finding the right job to complement your skillset could be the difference-maker.
Learn about business analysis. The Business Analysis Body of Knowledge (BABOK) is a global reference guide for Business Analysts.
Approach your work with a Business Analyst’s mindset and seek tangible feedback from superiors. This could involve sharing your career goals or asking for opportunities to practice Business Analyst techniques. Doing so would also allow you to demonstrate any technical and fundamental skills.
Additional certification and education. This applies to those practicing as Business Analysts or those looking to shift into an IT Business Analyst role.