Esther Oluwabusayo Folorunso is a certified business analyst who presently serves as the Vice President, Technology of the International Institute of Business Analysis, Tampa Bay, Florida Chapter and an IT Business Analyst at Mt. Hood Community College in Gresham, Oregon.
An architect of digital transformation, her role, as business analyst, involves envisioning how technology can reshape businesses, and then crafting the blueprint to make that vision a reality, saying, “It’s about understanding the intricate workings of an organization, identifying opportunities for improvement, and translating those into innovative digital solutions. This involves conducting comprehensive technology assessments, mitigating associated risks, and aligning technological advancements with overarching business objectives.”
Stating that his journey into technology and business analysis was ignited by a profound fascination with the intersection of human ingenuity and technological advancement, she said, she has always been captivated by the potential of technology to transform industries and improve lives. This passion, coupled with a strong analytical mindset, naturally led me to the field of business analysis, she noted.
To her, “Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working across diverse industries, gaining invaluable insights into the challenges and opportunities organizations face. I realized that there was a gap in the market for a comprehensive guide that could bridge the divide between theoretical business analysis concepts and practical, industry-specific applications.
“This realisation spurred me to write ‘Business Analysis: Bridging the Gap Across Industries’. I shared this vision with a couple of other industry experts and we ran with this vision, contributing our expertise thus leading to the creation of a domain specific guide. And as you rightly said, we are working on a version 2 which is definitely a bigger project which i can assure you that it would be beneficial to all business analysts. We intend to cover more industries with consideration to the resultant government regulations and we expect that this second version will offer even more tailored guidance and best practices for business analysts operating in various sectors.”
As a passionate analyst, she had the opportunity to work on a diverse range of projects, from small-scale process improvements to large-scale enterprise transformations as each experience has been a stepping stone for him, allowing him to refine his skills and expand his knowledge.
Also an author who published ‘Business Analysis: Bridging the Gap Across Industries,’ a development that marked a significant milestone, she said, “It was a culmination of years of practical experience and a deep-seated desire to share knowledge with the broader business analysis community. The book has garnered positive feedback from professionals worldwide, validating our efforts to create a valuable resource. We are adapting a part of it into a training resource for a top Global talent recruiting company here in Nigeria. We are also currently in talks with the IIBA Philipine chapter on its adaptation as a training resource. I must say that the benefits are endless. It’s been an incredible journey, and I’m excited to see how the second edition will further impact the business analysis profession.”
Making Impacts
The truth is that, the potential impact of technology and business analysis on Nigeria and Africa is immense, according to her. By fostering a culture of innovation and problem-solving, she said, these disciplines can drive economic growth, improve governance, and enhance the quality of life for millions as Nigeria and Africa have the potential to become global leaders in technology and business analysis.
By investing in education, infrastructure, and research and development, she disclosed that, “Nigeria can harness the power of technology to create a brighter future for we citizens and reduce the brain drain that is presently engulfing our economy.
Most importantly, an incredible opportunity for skill advancement in technology fields exists. One key area of impact is economic development.
“The technology sector has the power to generate numerous jobs, both directly and indirectly, stimulating economic growth. Furthermore, business analysis can help identify opportunities for new businesses and startups, fostering a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem. By optimizing business processes and reducing costs, technology and business analysis can enhance efficiency and competitiveness.”
Profitability of the Business
The field of business analysis, she noted,offers competitive compensation. Salary levels often depend on factors such as experience, industry, location, and certifications. Professionals with several years of experience, working in sectors like finance or technology, and based in major metropolitan areas typically command higher salaries, while there’s potential for significant earnings, as individual performance and specific roles also influence compensation, she pointed out.
Challenges
To her, “the fact remains that no career path is a smooth sailing one. One challenge which is also a key strength is the constant evolution of technology and business landscapes. To stay ahead of the curve, I invest time in continuous learning and upskilling. I also foster a culture of innovation within my team, encouraging experimentation and exploration of new technologies. By staying adaptable and embracing change, I’ve been able to successfully navigate these dynamic environments.”
Advice To Entrepreneurs
To succeed in business analysis, she said: “I always recommend to my mentees to cultivate a strong foundation in business acumen and analytical thinking. A deep understanding of how businesses operate is crucial for identifying opportunities and challenges. Additionally, honing your communication and interpersonal skills is essential for building strong relationships with stakeholders.
“Continuous learning is key in this dynamic field. Stay updated on industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices. Seek out opportunities for professional development, such as certifications and workshops. Furthermore, develop a strong problem-solving mindset. Business analysts often tackle complex challenges, and the ability to think critically and creatively is invaluable.
“Lastly, remember that building relationships with stakeholders is paramount. Effective communication, empathy, and active listening are essential for understanding their needs and delivering successful solutions. By combining these elements, aspiring business analysts can position themselves for a rewarding and fulfilling career.”
Education/Career
A certified business analyst from the international institute of business analysis, she has an MBA in Management Information Systems from Fort Hays State University, Hays, Kansas, USA and a bachelors degree in Entrepreneurship and business management, an industry judge with the International institute of business analysts and other global organizations and a die-hard lover of God.
She is a Christian, a mentor to teenagers, a public speaker, industry judge and most recently also the Principal Author on the recently published Domain specific manual titled Business Analysis:Bridging the gap across Industries.
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