THE FOLLOWING SESSION IS FROM THE
Business Analysis Forum

Wednesday | 2:00pm - 3:00pm | Business Analysis Forum Track
Room: Plaza A1 & 2



Presentation

The 5 BA Musts for a COTS Project

SPEAKER(s):

Speaker Photo: Barbara A. Carkenord

Barbara A. Carkenord

CBAP, Co-founder, Chief Curriculum Strategist, B2T Training

MAIN FOCUS OF PRESENTATION:

FAMILIARITY WITH SUBJECT:

    ABOUT THIS SESSION:

    Most organizations buy application software to save time and money over internal software development. Business Analysts are frequently involved in package selection, customization, implementation, and upgrade projects for these COTS (Commercial Off the Shelf) packages. Choosing to buy a software application rather than develop it appears to reduce the need for business analysis and requirements but in reality analysis is a critical component of successful implementations. BAs are often shut out of the selection process when requirements should be developed upfront, before selection of the package. Analysis work also includes determination of the differences (gaps) between the COTS product and the true business needs, decisions about what changes to make (customizations), and development of an implementation plan to smooth the transition. Business analysts also must learn to communicate clearly with business users about the functions, features, and benefits of using pre-defined software.

    Key Learning Objectives

    1. Performing gap analysis between business requirements and the COTS package
    2. Identifying interfaces and perform interface analysis
    3. Understanding the true costs of customization vs. functionality sacrifices
    4. Talking about the transition requirements of COTS with your business stakeholders and management


    ABOUT THE SPEAKER(s):

    Barbara Carkenord, CBAP, Co-founder, Chief Curriculum Strategist of B2T Training, has over 25 years experience in business analysis. Barbara possesses an MBA from University of Michigan and began her career in the Information Technology area as a programmer, systems analyst, business analyst, and project manager. Barbara has specialized in the development of analytical skills for BAs.  She is a frequent speaker at industry conferences and has authored many articles on business analysis. Actively involved in the IIBA and was a core team member of the IIBA BABOK® creation committee.


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