The success of any initiative depends on effective collaboration and communication. Establishing a transparent and cooperative environment requires a business analyst to earn the trust of stakeholders.
Remember that stakeholders encompass more than just clients and end-users; they include anyone affected by or influencing the change.
The responsibility of a business analyst is to cultivate a transparent environment, and trust is the foundation. How can this be achieved? It starts with predictability and organization.
Always provide estimated completion times (aka ETA) for tasks and deliver them within the agreed-upon timeframe. If unforeseen delays occur, communicate in advance, offering sufficient reasoning and a new estimated completion time.
Apply this approach consistently across all stakeholders:
Example 1: You tell a development team member you'll have a mockup ready by Wednesday. Ideally, on Wednesday morning, send them an update: "Finalizing the mockup, expect it by 3 PM today."
Example 2: During a client call, you commit to delivering an account management specification by Thursday. If you realize by Tuesday that more time is needed, proactively inform the client. Explain that additional complexities emerged, necessitating an extension to Monday of the following week.
Don't ignore missed deadlines or wait for stakeholders to inquire about delays.
Instead, share updated timelines promptly, coupled with your reasoning.
It's a simple practice, but consistently following it can make a notable impact on your stakeholder relationships.
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