Schedule of

Events:

Nov 17th, Chapter

Meeting & Board Elections

Dec 7th, Holiday

Social Event!

CBAP Study Group

Every Wednesday at Noon

Contact us to get the call in

details:

info@fortworth.

theiiba.org

Inside this issue:

Holiday Event! 2

West Wing

Networking

3

Bullet Proof

Business Case

Member

Highlight

4

Build Quality

into your

Requirements

5

CBAP 5 Tips

Study Group

6

IIBA

Membership

Feedback!

7

Sponsors

Chapter

Volunteer

8

November 14th, 2011 Volume 2, Issue 5

Raising the Business Analyst Bar to Higher Levels

fortworth.theiiba.org

“The Leading Analyst”— November 17th Chapter Meeting

Tammy Brown will be presenting what analyst leadership looks like. We will review the

key components required to lead as an effective Analyst.

How to manage

Multiple analysts/ skill sets Virtual Teams Multiple projects and each specific demand

How to Set Expectations within your company culture

Understanding your specific model Understanding Internal Methodology Dispersing Internal Terminology

How to build your Personal Brand

Tammy Brown, CBAP is the IIBA U.S. Central Regional Forum Director

& is our VP of Education Fort Worth IIBA. Tammy is a Senior IT Man-

ager at PricewaterhouseCoopers with over 10 year experience in business

analysis and project management. She received her CBAP in 2009.She

has worked in management for GE Capital and Xerox Corporation and led

the BACoE effort at DynCorp International. She has also directed an Oracle

Enterprise Resource Planning implementation BA team. Tammy embraces

quality and excellence in her professional and personal life. She was chair-

person for the group that formed the Fort Worth IIBA chapter in 2007. In

addition, she is active in her local community and serves as board member

to several organizations.

Positions up for Election are:

VP of Communications and VP of Professional Development

All Chapter Members are eligible to vote

IIBA Fort Worth Chapter Board Elections will be held at the November

17th Chapter Meeting!

Tammy Brown, CBAP

Education & Professional Development

Page 2 Volume 2, Issue 5

The Special Event Committee would like you to Hold Wednesday, December 7th

Open for the Annual Holiday Social Event!

The Holiday Season is here and no better way to kick off the celebrations than to meet your fellow BA’s in the community. It is fun, entertaining and presents a great networking opportunity. Meet your fellow BA leaders in the community. Do you have your New Years Career Resolution in order? Come join your fellow BA’s with this table

topic to explore what you can do to boost your business analyst career!

Who: You! If you are a Business Analyst or want to learn more about the career opportunities of one, come join us! All are welcome!

Where: A special Holiday Event Invitation is on the way! (Please try to pre-register so we can plan accordingly)

When: Wednesday, December 7th at 6:30 P.M.

How: Make sure you are on the mailing list!

Contact us at:

info@fortworth.theiiba.org

Our local Fort Worth IIBA Chapter is continuing to support Cowboy Santas. Please feel free to bring any unwrapped gifts. This year has been a hard year financially for many of us or families we may know. Any donation is not too small to help a neighbor in need. There are also opportunities to volunteer your time at the Cowboy Santas Warehouse December 3rd—22nd. You can sign up during the Social Event. This is one more way your Local Fort Worth Chapter is trying to give back to our community.

IIBA Fort Worth Chapter Holiday Social Event!

Hold this Date!

December 7th

BA Cowtown Holiday Special Event You

Will NOT Want to Miss!

Cowboy Santas is a non-profit program that provides toys to children from

low-income families during the holiday season. Cowboy Santas Program Inc.

serves the entire Tarrant County including the cities of Fort Worth, Arlington, Bed-

ford, Mansfield, Hurst, North Richland Hills, Forest Hill etc. In 2009, through the kind-

ness of our community, our sponsors and volunteers and individual donations, our pro-

gram was able to distribute toys to 12,323 children and more than 5,000 families.

Page 3

The West Wing: A message from Your Chapter President

- Ken Alexander

Hello Cowtown BA Professionals! How Y’all Doin? It’s November and the autumn season abounds in beauty. The leaves on the trees are turning into beautiful yellow, orange, red, and brown colors. The midday sun adds a refreshing cover of warmth to the chill of the slight northern winds. The hundred degree days are behind and the pleasant days of comfortable temperatures are well received by all. And to add to the serenity of this time of year, the holiday season is upon us. This time of year always remind me to look back over the year’s activities and appreci-ate the rewards from the experiences that I have encountered. Being active in the IIBA Fort Worth Chapter has awarded me many fun and meaningful experiences this year. This year has been a year of learning, sharing, growth, and fun activities for the chapter. I have enjoyed the networking with current members as well as meeting new members who have joined this year. We have been encouraged by the support of our vendors, current and new, who have worked along with us with training and social activities. Our Summer Social was a great success and we look forward to the Christmas Social with great anticipation. We are also thankful for the opportunity to support the Cowboy Santas Charity again this year. As I reflect over this year I am encouraged by the enthusiasm of each of you and your support of the Chapter. I hope that each of you can look back over this year and reflect upon the experiences that have impacted your life and career. Then, look forward and see where your partici-pation can make next year’s experiences even more precious and rewarding. Happy Thanksgiving! I continue to look forward to seeing you all at the monthly meetings and other local functions. The Fort Worth IIBA is an avenue for all the BAs in the DFW area to come together and support one another, as well as get exposure to great networking, quality training, and informative lectures. You are welcome to come out and participate in all of the Fort Worth IIBA activities and

please let us know what we can do to make Your Fort Worth IIBA Chapter more benefi-

cial for you.

In support of our

community,

All are welcome to

participate in our Fort

Worth IIBA Chapter

Meetings, Webinars,

Workshops, Special

Events and more.

See what we are all

about!

Chapter News / From the West Wing

Volume 2, Issue 5

Ken Alexander

Your

IIBA Fort Worth

Chapter President

kenneth.alexander

@fortworth.theiiba.org

The Power of Social Networking—by Lynn Lang

Who would have predicted social networking would have become as powerful as it is today. All you have to do is review the current news events that identify Social Networking as the cause of governments changes around the world. It is also the number one way to land a new job! Use Networking tools and Industry Associations like IIBA to stay

connected in the modern world! Do you have a Linked in account?

Are you actively engaged in your local IIBA chapter?

Do you blog on industry best practices? These are just a few ways to make you and

your business analysis knowledge visible to leaders of organizations to land your

dream job. In this modern age of technology, its not just the latest trend for the young

or trendy. Building your Social Network is a Career Strategy!

Connect with

the IIBA Fort

Worth Chapter

on Linked in

Education & Professional Development

Page 4 Volume 2, Issue 5

Creating Bulletproof Business Cases

Richard Larson from Watermark Learning presented ―Creating Bulletproof Business Cases‖ at our Octo-

ber virtual chapter meeting. Richard delivered a captivating and informative presentation that provided

a synopses of both challenges and tangible solutions any Business Analyst can take advantage of.

Project teams often find themselves developing business cases for the performing organization. When asked to do so, it

is critical to create a solid business case. All too often, project teams are asked to implement a solution before the un-

derlying problem is known or assessed. No one likes working on misguided projects, or efforts that don’t meet business

needs, or projects doomed for failure. Worst of all are projects that are cancelled because of lack of support or sponsor-

ship. A well-defined business case helps prevent these issues. An essential ingredient to successful projects is a clear and relevant business case. It provides both insights into and a

proposed solution for important business needs. Bulletproof business cases contain feasible and effective ways of justify-

ing and recommending projects that address business needs, both problems and opportunities.

Key Learning's:

Describe the essential components of an effective business case.

Plan a business case effort using an approach that helps you function as a management

consultant to your organization.

Select appropriate techniques for determining root causes of business problems or the

main drivers of opportunities.

Avoid common pitfalls when recommending or justifying projects.

Richard Larson, PMP, CBAP President and Founder of Watermark Learning, Richard Larson has over 30 years of experience in business

analysis, project management, training and consulting. He has presented workshops and seminars to thou-

sands of participants on 3 different continents. Rich is a frequent speaker at Business Analysis and Project Management conferences and IIBA® and PMI®

chapters around North America. His articles have appeared in BA Times, Project Times, Modern Analyst,

RQNG, and related publications.

Richard is a contributor to the Business Analysis Body of Knowledge version 2.0 and to the 4th edition of the

Project Management Body of Knowledge. He and his wife Elizabeth Larson have co-authored two books,

CBAP Certification Study Guide, and Requirements Planning.

If you would like a copy of the Creating Bulletproof Business Cases presentation

contact us at: info@fortworth.theiiba.org

Doug Petersen is currently a Business Analyst with First Command. He has 16 years of IT experience in the Financial Services and Utility industries. One of the keys to Doug's success is that his professional career began within the business depart-ment. Working in daily operations provided Doug with an extremely beneficial understand-ing of the day-to-day challenges facing business managers. This experience also gave him a true appreciation for good communication and follow-through. One of Doug's notable accomplishments was taking a project lead role on a large commission, recognition, and reporting system. The documentation, testing, implementation and support efforts were challenging at times. However, building good team skills within IT and the customer groups proved to be a tremendous benefit. Doug grew up in Dallas, graduated from UTA with a BBA in

Finance. He currently lives in Grand Prairie with his wonderful wife of 21 years, and two chil-dren in high school.

DID YOU KNOW…? Doug is an Eagle scout and a very active leader in his son's boy scout troop.

Member Highlight: Doug Petersen

Doug Petersen

Education & Professional Development

Page 5 Volume 2, Issue 5

No matter what Methodology or techniques you use to elicit and document the business requirements,

taking the time to build in quality prevents rework and cost over runs. This can be facilitated by your

project team or peer reviews. Some organizations even have designated assessors to assure quality

principals are adhered to. Regardless of your situation here are some guiding principals to help assure

you build in quality into your requirements.

What do you look for when assessing requirements?

Accuracy / Consistency

Completeness

Quality Attributes

Accuracy / Consistency – Determine if the detail requirements are accurate, consistent, and feasible by con-

ducting follow-up interviews to review and validate the requirements. The purpose is to ensure that no misinter-

pretation has occurred by any of the Stakeholders.

Accurate – addresses an actual specific problem within the scope of the requirements.

Consistent – Names/concepts have a single definition; requirement statements do not contradict each other.

Feasible – Statements that require only that which is technologically feasible.

Completeness – Verify that definitions, refinements, clarifications, etc. have been performed for all detail re-

quirements.

Complete – all necessary detail requirements describing the solution have been specified. Ensure that necessary capabilities or features have been created or captured for the solution as specified and traceable to the requirements and are aligned with the goals and objectives for the project.

Quality Attributes – Verify that each detail requirement meets the following acceptance criteria regarding quality attributes:

Unambiguous – Each requirement is stated exactly, is not vague or open-ended, is easily understood, and comprehensible (logic is understood), i.e., not subject to different interpretations.

Verifiable – Statements can be verified or confirmed by examination, analysis, testing or demonstration within the solution. Does not contain words that cannot be tested or measured.

Understandable – Capable of being understood, comprehensible, short sentences, consistent use of terms, positive statements. Includes sufficient notes, comments and clarifications as required.

Design Freedom – The WHAT, WHEN, and HOW WELL are all explicitly stated, but the HOW is not even implied.

Identifiable – ‘shall’ is used in the requirement statement to identify the requirements as a contractual de-liverable capability.

Succinct – The requirement is free of superfluous, subjective, or informative material.

Traceability – Must be able to trace backwards to the business objective, need or rule. Must be able to trace forwards regarding change history and to the respective solution / system component.

Prioritized – Determine which requirements are essential versus desirable or optional in order to ensure analysis and implementation focuses on the most critical requirements first.

When business analysts are deep into the analysis process, providing an outside/fresh perspective can be ex-tremely valuable to both the analyst and the project. Reviews can be informal or formal. They can take on the form of a peer review, mentoring or just informal discussions. They create an environment of self awareness and continuous improvement. It is key to be respectful and open to establish a positive learning environment.

Build Quality into your Requirements—by Lynn Lang

Business Analyst Certification ( IIBA® CBAP® ) Study Group:

The IIBA® has

created the

Certified Business

Analysis

Professional™

(CBAP®), a

designation

awarded to

candidates who

have successfully

demonstrated

their expertise in

this field. This is

done by detailing

hands-on work

experience in

business analysis

through the

CBAP®

application

process, and

passing the IIBA®

CBAP®

examination.

Education & Professional Development

Page 6 Volume 2, Issue 5

Join your local Fort Worth Chapter CBAP 2.0 Study Group today! Every Wednesday

the Study Group conferences in over their lunch hour. It’s easy and convenient. The

Study Group reviews a knowledge area every week. Learning Industry Best Practices

puts you ahead of the game!

Add IIBA to your New Year’s Resolution!

Contact us now, a new study group will be starting the first of the New Year!

When: Every Wednesday from 12:00 noon to 1:00pm

Where: Contact us to get the call in details at:

info@fortworth.theiiba.org

Five Tips for Passing the CBAP Exam on Your First Try - By Sandy Schmidt

Having just passed the CBAP exam in October, I wanted to share some of my tips.

These are applicable to the CCBA exam as well.

Join the Chapter Study Group: Not only will you find support and encouragement, you will learn different perspectives from other group members. Being a member of the study group will also help keep you on track. Highly recommended.

Use study guides in addition to the BABOK: Reading the BABOK is a must, but

study guides will help you fine tune your focus. In addition to the B2T guide used for my Chapter Study group, I also used the Watermark Learning study guide. Having two points of view from two different study guides was helpful.

Take online practice exams: They are valuable in pointing out the areas in which you

are strong, as well as the areas you need to improve. Taking practice exams online gets you ready for the actual testing experience. Keep taking the exams until you feel very comfortable with the material. Several companies offer them. I used the online CBAP practice exams by Watermark Learning and found them to be very effective.

Schedule regular study time: We all lead very busy lives and it is hard to find time to

study unless you deliberately make that time. Each week, I would review my schedule, block out study time, and treat it like an appointment. During my study time, I would alternate between reading the BABOK and the study guides and tak-ing the online practice exams.

Take advantage of any assistance your company offers: If your company will pay

for you to attend a boot camp, by all means do so. It can only help. However, if you are on your own, no need to worry. I didn’t attend a boot camp and passed, and so can you.

With the New Year quickly approaching, it’s time to start thinking about 2012 goals.

Why not make obtaining your CBAP or CCBA certification one of them?

YOU CAN DO IT !

When you join IIBA®, you become a member of an interna-

tional association dedicated to developing and promoting the

Business Analysis profession. Our members are part of a global

organization of business analysts who want to:

Expand and share their knowledge with other BA’s Learn how to improve their job performance and advance their careers

Network with other professionals in the field

Promote the BA profession to the business community

And more…

Become a member of our community of thousands of business

analysis professionals worldwide – join IIBA® today at:

http://www.theiiba.org

Are You an IIBA Member Yet?

IIBA Membership

Page 7 Volume 2, Issue 5

Membership Benefits:

Access to a free copy of the Business Analysis Body of Knowledge® (BABOK

®

Guide) v2.0

Free access to the Online Library of more than 300 books

Discounted fee for the Certified Business Analysis Professional™ (CBAP®)

certification exam

Knowledge sharing and networking opportunities through the IIBA Community Network

Access to exclusive IIBA monthly publications such as the IIBA BA Connec-tion monthly newsletter and Quick Tips for Better Business Analysis™ e-Bulletin

Eligibility to join a local IIBA Chapter

Access to a free copy of the Business Analysis Competency Model

Access to IIBA Webinars a range of professional development topics

Job search capabilities using Career Center

Your Local IIBA

Fort Worth Chapter Board

Members:

Ken Alexander

President

Tammy Brown

VP of Education

Lynn A. Lang

VP of Professional

Development

& News Letter

Al Henry

VP of Communications

Sandy Schmidt

Secretary

Cheryl Harris

Treasurer

Contact us at:

info@fortworth.theii

ba.org We want to hear from you!

Do you have BA Cowtown Connection Feedback or Suggestions?

Get on the IIBA Fort Worth distribution list (membership not required):

BA Cowtown Connection, Work Shops,

Webinars, Special Events & Chapter Meeting Notices

Contact us at:

info@fortworth.theiiba.org

Website:

fortworth.theiiba.org

Email:

info@fortworth.theiib

a.org

Linkedin: http://www.linkedin.com/groups?gid=92328&trk=hb_side_g

Yahoo: http://finance.groups.yahoo.com/group/fortworthiiba/

Chapter Meeting

Location:

Downtown Fort Worth

275 W. 13th Street

Fort Worth, Tx 76102

We are on the Web! fortworth.theiiba.org

Our Sponsors

Page 8 Volume 2, Issue 5

Currently interviewing for a Premier sponsor. If an organization is

looking to sponsor the Fort Worth IIBA, please find out about the

benefits of sponsoring our group by contacting us at:

info@fortworth.theiiba.org

IIBA® is the independent non-profit professional association

serving the growing field of Business Analysis. Whatever your

role—requirements management, systems analysis, business

analysis, requirements analysis, project management, or con-

sulting—the IIBA® can help you do your job better.

If you are interested in joining the Fort Worth Chapter of the

IIBA® come to our next meeting!

We meet on the 4th Thursday of each month at 6:00 pm.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES WITH

THE FORT WORTH IIBA CHAPTER

Do you have experience or interest in any of the following areas, and would you be willing to help if needed?

Sponsorship Committee

Special Events Committee

RCC (Registered Company Coordinator) Committee

Publicity Committee

Education Committee

Website Development Committee

Member Services

Speaker Committee

News Letter Committee

Contact us at:

info@fortworth.theiiba.org

Special thanks to our Patron Sponsors:

Crosswind Learning City of Fort Worth

DynCorp International