Business Analyst Or Subject Matter Expert – Which One Do I Need For My Project?
Business Analysts (BAs) and Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) both play important roles in projects and they both have distinct responsibilities and areas of expertise. Seems like some employers have a different view of what one or the other role actually is. Some job adverts require so much in depth knowledge of a particular area or domain that it is confusing whether they are looking for a BA or an SME with a BA experience. The BA skillset is transferable and needs to be applied to other projects. Building up too much SME knowledge can erode that skillset and make it hard for a BA to move onto other projects within other areas and domains of the business.
The area / domain knowledge is certainly important for a BA and the curiosity to expand on that knowledge as required and so it is important to draw a line between the roles of a BA and an SME.
Let’s start with the Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) – who are they?
SMEs provide in-depth knowledge and expertise in a specific subject matter area or industry domain. For example, the SME can be a representative for the finance, procurement or operations area of a particular business entity. The knowledge about a particular area has never been static and never more so than the times we live in now therefore staying abreast of developments and best practices is important for the SME. This way, they provide most up to date insights, guidance, and validation to ensure that project solutions meet the SME area requirements and also industry standards and requirements.
The SMEs will not only provide invaluable input into the project but also review documentation pertaining to their area of expertise and make decisions.
Business Analysts (BA)
BAs focus on analyzing business processes, gathering requirements, and facilitating communication between stakeholders to ensure that technology solutions meet business needs.
BAs possess strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills. They are proficient in techniques such as requirement elicitation, process modelling, and data analysis.
BAs have a broad understanding of business domains, project management methodologies, and technology solutions. They may not have deep expertise in a specific industry or subject matter area.
BAs act as intermediaries between business stakeholders and technical teams. They translate business requirements into technical specifications, manage project scope, and ensure that solutions deliver value to the organization.
How do the Business Analyst and Subject Matter Expert work together?
While the Business Analyst is usually added to the project team for the duration of the project, the SME comes in on a need – to basis to provide input within their domain. Once the project finishes, the SME usually returns 100% back to their day – to – day role. They are a borrowed resource for a designated duration of time and purpose. BA, however, is then either deployed on a different project or the entire project team is dismantled and their presence is no longer required after project handover to the business. In the latter scenario, the BA can possibly be deployed to a completely different business domain, industry, and environment.
The reason this is possible is because BA techniques and tools can be flexed and adapted to facilitate this kind of movement and are appropriate for all business domains and industries. The BA needs to be curious and willing / able to develop the required knowledge to build credibility with the stakeholders and facilitate project success.
In summary, both BA and SME roles are critical for the success of projects, as they bring different perspectives and skills to the table to ensure that project solutions meet business objectives and industry requirements.
For more details, view our Business Analyst site.