As a business analyst, you are actively engaged in processes like requirements elicitation, business domain analysis, requirements engineering, and related tasks. Many of these activities necessitate your analysis of existing information and the need for follow-up questions.
Here are some best practices to consider when working on the discovery questions:
1️⃣Organize Questions Logically:
It's essential to structure your questions logically. Group related queries together to maintain a seamless flow of conversation. For example, if you're discussing user account management, keep all questions about that topic together. This logical arrangement not only enhances comprehension but also opens the door for additional follow-up questions.
2️⃣Propose Options with Open-Ended Questions:
While open-ended questions are valuable for eliciting in-depth insights, they can be even more effective when you propose options alongside them.
Instead of asking, "What payment methods should be available on the website?" consider phrasing it like this: "We assume that the following payment options should be available: credit cards, PayPal, and checks. Do these align with your vision, or are there other options you'd like to add?"
This approach shows your commitment to thoughtful analysis and encourages collaboration.
3️⃣Start Broad, Then Narrow Down:
Begin your questioning with a broad perspective before delving into specifics.
This allows you to build context and establish a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter. This method ensures that nothing critical is overlooked and that you're not focused on minor details.
The skill to ask discovery questions demonstrates the analyst's capacity to structure information effectively and comprehend the subject matter efficiently.
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