Project managers and business analysts are often misunderstood in their roles. While many businesses who are looking to outsource some of the tasks required to complete a project, they may assume a project manager is all they need. Or they may take a strategic approach and believe that they only need a business analyst.
While it can be easy to get each of these roles confused, there is a benefit to having both roles filled within a business or project. Knowing where to find a balance between the project manager and the business analyst will enable you to take full advantage of their individual skill sets. This will work to create a more streamlined process which will set you up for success.
The project managers role
It is the responsibility of the project manager to ensure that any project they are managing is kept under control. From ensuring that the right people are performing the right tasks, as well as the budget is kept in check at all times.
When there are any issues it is up to the project manager to help devise the right solution; as well as create continuous communications between everyone involved within the project. This will make sure that everyone is on the same page on how the project is progressing as well as what steps need to be taken to complete the project.
The way a project manager can lead a team is important. Focusing on prioritising the greater good over personal objectives can lead to higher success in projects. This also allows team members to feel heard and their ideas and solutions are always considered and looked at in further detail.
The project manager will work to remove anything that could inhibit the performance of their project and the team. Making sure that the road ahead is clear to enable their team members to achieve.
The business analysts role
The role of a business analyst is different to that of a project manager. A business analyst will have various tools and skills that they must use in order to understand requirements and potential problems a business will have. Not only will the business analyst use these skills to independently identify these problems but they will also build out potential solutions which will be presented to the project manager.
A business analyst takes on a strategic role which will be used to research, identify, and help reach the desired results required from the project.
What tasks and skills overlap between a business analyst and project manager
There are some tasks which may overlap between a project manager and business analyst. From initial research to identifying problems and how to overcome them. A project manager will have a different thought process in how to solve a problem. This is due to the fact that they are looking at the problem from a different perspective. The project manager will be looking at other factors such as financial decisions, people involved in the project, and time scales.
Not only will they look at ways to solve the problem, they will also look at removing other blockages which would inhibit the success and time frame of the project. Allowing their team a clear path is essential to keeping a project on time.
Additionally, project managers will look to ensure that their team has everything they need to complete the project. Whether that is specific tools, applications, or hours to get the job done. They will advocate for their team members and prioritise the overall project and success over personal gain.
A business analyst will approach problem solutions differently. They will look at a wide range of solutions and approaches and then advise on the best solution that fits the brief as well as works from a strategic level. Whether that is utilising internal skills or working to create a fix that ensures the end result is what has been promised.
Each role requires a lot of teamwork and collaboration. A project manager and business analyst will need to work with a wide range of people within the project to ensure that their own tasks are completed. Whether that is obtaining the information needed or communicating other needs and requirements for the project to complete successfully.
While a project manager will communicate with stakeholders providing updates on how the project is progressing advocating for their team and progression of the project. The business analyst will communicate with those key stakeholders to ensure that the project is meeting their requirements from a functional perspective.
Skills that are needed to create the balance between business analyst and project managers
There are several skills that both project managers and business analysts need to have in order to create a successful project process.
Working collaboratively
Your project manager and business analyst will need to work together to ensure that the project is going in the right direction. While a project manager will ultimately make the decision on which way the project will go should any problems arise, they will still require feedback and briefing from the business analyst. A project manager can’t make a decision without gathering all of the facts and figures.
After all, the business analyst has the knowledge and skills which identify ideal routes to solve internal and external issues the project may face. Ignoring the strategic approach could be detrimental to the overall success of the project.
Analysing goals
The perfect project manager will also be able to analyse goals while taking into account the overall project and prioritise2 what is best for the project without getting their own ego involved. However, without the full breadth of knowledge the business analyst has; it will always be beneficial to consult with each person and work to understand the thought process behind other solutions.
The analytical process for the project manager will also look a little different. Since it is their responsibility to ensure that the project is completed on time and within budget, this is something that not all business analysts will be privy to. They need to work together to analyse goals, this is key to a successful project.
How the role of a business analyst helps a project manager
A business analyst is a key player within the project team. A project manager will come to rely on the information and strategic approach the business analyst has.
The role of a project manager is varied and involves different types of communication between departments to ensure that the project is kept on track and up to date. Each department within the project has its own skills that need to be utilised. And a great project manager will nurture these skills and allow their team to grow and adapt in order to best serve the project and their team.
A business analyst will be able to provide the project manager with the information needed to ensure that the project is going to be successful. From advising how to best achieve a goal, to other potential problems that may arise during the course of the project.
Working with a project manager and a business analyst will ensure that your project meets your expectations as well as is managed to budget and completed on time. Finding the right balance will be down to identifying key roles and responsibilities as well as utilising each person’s key skills.
Tratech Consulting works with a variety of businesses across the UK providing expert project management and business analysts to manage your project and ensure it meets your exact requirements. Contact us today for more information.
