Author Archives: R.P. Churchill

Another Take On Communication Styles

Years ago I was with my uncle, an extremely technically adept retired Coast Guard officer, bleeding the water out of a fuel line for a small outboard motor. He told me to turn the petcock counter-clockwise to open it and … Continue reading

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A Fascinating Simulation-Based Method for Risk Analysis

While piling up the final PDUs I need to renew my PMP, I encountered a fascinating discussion of risk (and budgeting) analysis and management techniques, presented by the internationally recognized risk management expert Dr. David T. Hulett. The video I … Continue reading

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How To Address A Weakness

In this evening’s discussion in our weekly Tampa IIBA certification study group we touched on the subject of dealing with weaknesses. This initially grew out of a discussion about SWOT analyses. Based on things I’ve read and my proclivity to … Continue reading

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Basic Framework Presentation

I found it necessary to put together a shorter introduction to my business analysis framework than my normal, full-length presentation(s). The link is here.

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Decision Modeling

Many business processes require decisions to be made. Decision modeling is about the making and automating of repeatable decisions. Some decisions require unique human judgment. They may arise from unusual or entrepreneurial situations and involve factors, needs, and emotions that … Continue reading

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Decision Analysis

Some decisions are fairly straightforward to make. This is true when the number of factors is limited and when their contributions are well defined. Other decisions, by contrast, involve more factors which contributions are less clear. It is also possible … Continue reading

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Business Analysis Embedded Within Project Management

I often describe the process of business analysis as being embedded in a process of project management. I’ve also described business analysis as an activity that takes place within a project management wrapper. Engagements (projects) may be run in many … Continue reading

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Estimation

Estimation is used to try to predict future outcomes related the the iron triangle elements of time, money, and, to a lesser degree quality (or features or performance). The BABOK essentially only discusses the first two. Estimates can be made … Continue reading

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Item Tracking

Item tracking is how participants in an effort monitor what concerns, issues, and tasks are valid and need to be addressed, and who has responsibility. Items can arise in any phase of an engagement and be tracked through any other … Continue reading

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Benchmarking and Market Analysis

Benchmarking involves learning about activities and characteristics across industries, organizations, products, methodologies, and technologies to identify best practices, product options, and competitive requirements. Benchmarking may be performed by comparing the presence or absence of features (which video editing programs can … Continue reading

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