What are the key skills that a business analyst needs to have to be effective? The Business Analysis Body of Knowledge (BABOK) version 2.0 calls them underlying competencies.

They are, in no particular order, analytical thinking (problem solving), behavioral characteristics, business knowledge, communication skills, interaction skills and software applications.

The first one is about new ideas and approaches. It’s about creativity, decision making, learning new things, problem solving and systems thinking. Ther systems are people, processes, and technology work together.

Behavioural characteristics are about ethics, being organized and being trustworthy.

Business knowledge involves having a fundamental understanding of business principals and best practices common to all organizations with a similar purpose and structure whether or not they ar in the same industry.

Jeremy Aschenbrenner on YouTube has six skills that every business analyst will need. They are communication, negotiation, problem solving, facilitation, organization and critical thinking. His video is called Business Analyst Key Skills.

Educational Qualifications

Currently, there is no standard educational requirement to become a business analyst and get a position in that role.