“The goal is to turn data into information, and information into insight.”
Carly Fiorina, former CEO of Hewlett-Packard, once said. Her vision resonates strongly with the expanding analytics market in India, where transforming data into actionable insights drives significant growth and innovation.  Â
In the Indian business landscape, analytics has become an essential driver of innovation, operational efficiency, and strategic decision-making. In 2023, the Indian analytics market was valued at $62.5 billion and is projected to grow to $182.1 billion by 2028, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 24% during this period, according to a report by Analytics Insights.  
In this scenario, the role of a business analyst has become increasingly crucial. Business analysts are professionals who bridge the gap between business objectives and technology solutions, ensuring organisations achieve their goals efficiently. If you’re interested in pursuing this dynamic career, here’s a comprehensive guide to becoming a business analyst.                                                                                                                                                       
Understanding the Role of a Business Analyst 
Before diving into the steps to become a business analyst, it’s essential to understand what the role entails. Business analysts are responsible for analysing an organisation’s processes, identifying areas for improvement, and implementing solutions that enhance efficiency and productivity. They work closely with stakeholders, including management, IT teams, and end-users, to gather requirements and ensure that solutions align with business goals. 
Key Skills Required in Business Analytics 
You need a blend of technical and soft skills to become a successful business analyst. Here are some of the key skills required: 
- Analytical Thinking: The ability to analyse data and processes to identify problems and opportunities. 
- Communication Skills: Effective communication is crucial for interacting with stakeholders and conveying complex information.
- Problem-Solving Skills: The capacity to develop innovative solutions to business challenges. 
- Technical Skills: Familiarity with data analysis tools, software development processes, and IT infrastructure. 
- Project Management: The ability to manage projects, including planning, execution, and monitoring. 
Educational Pathways to Become a Business Analyst 
To begin a career as a business analyst, you can follow different educational paths. Options include earning a relevant degree, taking specialised courses, and getting professional certifications. Each choice provides you with the skills and knowledge needed for the role.  
1. BBA Business Analytics 
A bachelor’s degree in business analytics is an excellent starting point for aspiring business analysts. This program typically covers subjects like data analysis, business intelligence, and management information systems.  
2. MBA in Business Analytics 
An MBA with a specialisation in Business Analytics is another popular route. This advanced degree provides a deeper understanding of business processes and analytics techniques. An MBA in Business Analytics is ideal for those seeking leadership roles in the field.  
3. Specialised Business Analytics Courses 
In addition to degree programs, various business analyst courses are available that can help you gain specific skills. These courses often cover topics like data visualisation, statistical analysis, and project management. Online platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer a range of business analyst courses suitable for different levels of experience. 
To become a successful business analyst, your chosen course should align with your interests and goals. The next section of this blog will help you learn steps that an aspiring student like you should follow for a promising career. Keep reading! 
Steps to Become a Business Analyst 
1. Obtain a Relevant Degree 
The first step is to obtain a relevant degree, such as a BBA in Business Analytics or an MBA in Business Analytics. These programs provide a solid foundation in business analysis, data management, and decision-making processes.
2. Gain Practical Experience 
Practical experience is crucial for aspiring business analysts. Look for internships or entry-level positions that allow you to work on real-world projects. This experience will help you apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations and develop essential skills. 
3. Develop Technical Skills 
You must work with various software tools and technologies as a business analyst. Familiarise yourself with data analysis tools like Microsoft Excel, SQL, and Tableau. Additionally, learning programming languages like Python or R can be beneficial. 
4. Enhance Soft Skills 
Soft skills like communication, problem-solving, and project management are equally important. Participate in workshops, join professional organisations, and engage in activities that help you develop these skills. 
5. Obtain Certifications 
Certifications can boost your credentials and demonstrate your expertise to potential employers. Some widely recognised certifications for business analysts include:
- Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP): The International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA) offers this certification for experienced professionals. 
- Entry Certificate in Business Analysis (ECBA): Also offered by IIBA, this certification is suitable for beginners. 
- PMI Professional in Business Analysis (PMI-PBA): Offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI), this certification focuses on business analysis within project management. 
You can learn more about the eligibility criteria and applications for CBAP & ECBA certifications here.  
6. Network with Professionals 
Networking is a powerful tool for career growth. You can attend industry conferences, join professional associations like the IIBA, and connect with business analysts on platforms like LinkedIn. Networking can open doors to job opportunities and provide valuable insights into the industry. 
7. Stay Updated with Industry Trends 
The field of business analysis is constantly evolving. Stay updated with the latest trends, tools, and techniques by reading industry publications, attending webinars, and participating in online forums. Continuous learning is essential for staying relevant in this dynamic field. 
Career Opportunities for Business Analysts  
Business analysts play a crucial role in various industries by bridging the gap between business needs and technological solutions. Their expertise in analysing data and processes opens doors to a wide range of career opportunities across different sectors.  
1. Business Systems Analyst 
Business systems analysts focus on optimising and integrating business processes with IT systems. They work closely with stakeholders to identify requirements and ensure technology solutions align with business goals. This role involves a deep understanding of both business operations and IT systems. 
2. Data Analyst  
Data analysts specialise in interpreting complex datasets to provide actionable insights. They use statistical tools and software to analyse trends, patterns, and correlations within data. This role is crucial for companies looking to make data-driven decisions and improve their strategies. 
3. Financial Analyst  
Financial analysts evaluate financial data to help organisations make informed investment decisions. They analyse financial statements, market trends, and economic conditions to provide recommendations on budgeting, forecasting, and investment opportunities. 
4. Operations Analyst  
Operations analysts focus on improving the efficiency of an organisation’s operations. They analyse workflow, identify bottlenecks, and propose solutions to streamline processes. Their goal is to enhance productivity and reduce operational costs. 
5. Product Manager  
In some organisations, business analysts transition into product management roles. Product managers oversee the development and lifecycle of products, working closely with engineering, marketing, and sales teams to ensure products meet market needs and business objectives. 
6. Consultant  
Business analysts can also work as consultants, providing expertise to various organisations on a project basis. Consultants offer tailored solutions to improve business processes, implement new systems, and address specific challenges clients face.  
7. Project Manager  
With their skills in managing requirements and stakeholder expectations, business analysts can move into project management roles. Project managers oversee projects from initiation to completion, ensuring they are delivered on time and within budget. 
Now that you understand the steps and skills needed to become a business analyst, you may wonder how to launch a successful career in this field. Shoolini University provides a forward-thinking curriculum designed to equip students with industry-relevant skills. For students like you who aspire to build a career in Business Management and Analytics, Shoolini University is the ideal choice. 
Shoolini University: An Ideal Choice to Study Business Analytics  
Located in the foothills of the Himalayas, Shoolini University is recognised as the No.1 Private University in India according to the QS and Times Higher Education World University Rankings. The National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) has placed Shoolini’s management programs in the 101-125 range, while Business Today ranked the university 88th among Indian universities.  
In addition, Shoolini is ranked number 12 among all Indian Universities by the Best Global Universities Rankings by US News & World Report. All these top-notch rankings make Shoolini an ideal place to study business analytics.  
The School of Business Management at Shoolini follows a curriculum that shapes future corporate leaders. Distinguished by NBA accreditation, the business analytics program is developed and guided by industry experts from leading companies such as McKinsey, PwC, and Citi, as well as esteemed institutions like IITs, IIMs, and ISB. This approach ensures that graduates are industry-ready from the start. 
Let’s see why Shoolini University is the best choice for a degree in Business Analytics.  
- Top Rankings: The School of Business Management at Shoolini is recognised among India’s best colleges for Business Analytics. Top rankings from world-renowned agencies and NBA-accredited MBA courses make Shoolini an excellent choice for your business studies.  
- Fully Residential Courses: Shoolini offers fully residential programs for business management students. These combine business management principles with advanced data analytics techniques. These comprehensive courses equip students with the skills to use data-driven insights for strategic decision-making in various business contexts.
- Growth-Oriented Curriculum: Shoolini offers a curriculum focused on the overall growth of students, preparing them for various industry roles. Graduates are well-equipped to take on roles such as data analysts, business intelligence managers, data scientists, and consultants. 
- State-of-the-art Facilities: With over 104 advanced laboratories and 11 Centres of Excellence, Shoolini provides world-class infrastructure. The five-story Yogananda Library, designed aesthetically, offers 24/7 access to knowledge. 
- World-Class Faculty: The faculty at the School of Business Management includes business leaders from top companies like McKinsey, PwC, and Citi, and institutions such as IITs, IIMs, and ISB. Most professors come from the best national and international institutions. 
- Skill Development Programs: Shoolini offers various skill development programs, such as Stanford-based SPRINT Bootcamp and ATP. The SPRINT program is a week-long intensive training session focusing on industry exposure, hands-on workshops, games, and guest lectures. The 21-day ATP program enhances problem-solving skills and conceptual knowledge. 
- Global Exposure: Students gain global exposure through international exchange opportunities with renowned universities worldwide. Some partner universities include the University of Arkansas (USA), Lanzhou University (China), University of Naples (Italy), Taipei Medical University (Taiwan), Gachon University (South Korea), and South Dakota Mines University (USA). 
- Lucrative Placements: Shoolini offers 100% placements under ‘Mission 130’, aiming for 100% employability, with 30% of students securing excellent jobs. Each year, students are placed in top companies such as Mercer, Deloitte, Accenture, Ericsson, KPMG, Nestle, Grant Thornton, Piramal, Adani, and Hindustan Unilever Limited. 
End Note 
Becoming a business analyst involves a combination of education, skill development, practical experience, and continuous learning. By following these steps and staying committed to your professional growth, you can build a successful career in business analysis and significantly impact the organisations you work with.  
Stay curious, keep learning and achieve your goal to become a proficient business analyst.  
