This is an Introduction to Business Analysis. There are no pre-requisites. The module is available as a FLAP Certificate of Credit and is only available to students on this award.

Access to VLE (Blackboard)
Business process modelling (CASE) tool

The learning strategy will be to use a blended approach, with some classroom contact mixed with directed study and supported with on-line materials. Case studies from the students place of employment will be used where possible.

The module will allow you to work in your own time and at your own pace, with assistance from a academic tutor to assist you with complex concepts and theories. Extensive use will be made of the technique of learning via problem solving. The course relies heavily on prescribed reading which will be provided as an integral part of the module.

Enterprise Analysis and Architecture - understanding the needs of the business as a whole, its strategic direction and vision. Identifying initiatives that will allow the business to meet its strategic goals and satisfy its objectives.
Business Architecture - producing 'current', 'intermediate' and 'target' reference architectures. Applying architectures to manage change within the enterprise and to create a 'migration plan' for process improvement.
Process Improvement Planning - planning for process improvement and giving priority to process improvement programmes in line with business goals and objectives.
Business Process Modelling - representing both the current ('as is') and future ('to be') processes of a business. Understanding and using BPM tools to analyse and improve business processes, e.g. Business Process Modelling Notation (BPMN), Business Process Execution Language (BPEL) and Unified Modelling Language (UML).
Change Management - putting the improved business processes into practice. Continuous improvement approaches (e.g. Six Sigma). Gaining acceptance for change and monitoring process improvement.

Includes a group component weighted at 50% typically based around a case study, and an individual reflective component weighted at 50% which will together assess Learning Outcomes 1, 2, 3 and 4. The assignment will be to design and implement a prototype solution to a given business case study. An advisory word limit of 4,000 words will apply.

Essential Reading:
Paul D. and D. Yeates, D.
Business Analysis.
British Computer Society; 2nd New edition edition (1 July 2010)
ISBN: 978-1906124618