Shared Understanding Tip #6: Structure the Requirements, Do Not Pile Them Up

Creating a shared understanding of business requirements is like picturing a building instead of a pile of bricks. You cannot achieve it without organizing requirements in a structure that makes sense. More than that: how can you, a business analyst,…

Shared Understanding Tip #5: Review, Refine & Repeat

Achieving a shared understanding of business requirements is an iterative process. Recap the main points after each requirements discussion – reconfirm agreement. Restate the problem, objectives and findings before the next meeting. If you see confused faces – recall previous…

Shared Understanding Tip #4: Share As You Go, Requirements Are Not a Secret

Achieving a shared understanding of requirements is a process, not an event. Business requirements are just a format for capturing shared understanding of the problem and required solution. So, requirements are not a secret that needs to be kept from…

Shared Understanding Tip #2: Consistent Terminology

Continuing the topic of getting to shared understanding of business requirement, here is the next tip: use consistent terminology. Define the terms, publish and share the definitions in a glossary or business dictionary. Then, promote the correct terms. As a…