According to a recent study, the number of business analysts employed in Nigeria has grown by an average of 15% per year over the past five years. There is also a growing number of universities in Nigeria that are offering degrees and certifications in business analysis.
Moreover, according to a survey by Indeed, the average salary for a Technical business analyst in Nigeria is between ₦1,200,000 – ₦6,000,000 per year. Organizations in Nigeria are relying on data and technology more than ever to run their businesses. This is where the role of a Technical Business Analyst comes in.
However, in this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about becoming a Technical business analyst in Nigeria, including the basic skills and qualifications required to secure a job in this fast-growing field in the business sector.
What is a Technical Business Analyst?
A technical business analyst is a professional who combines technical expertise with business savvy to analyze, improve, and optimize business processes. They use their knowledge of both disciplines to identify areas for improvement in an organization, analyze the data, and make recommendations for change.
Technical business analysts are often skilled in a variety of tools, such as SQL, Power BI, and Tableau, and can use these tools to uncover insights from data. They also need strong communication and presentation skills, as they need to be able to effectively communicate their findings to stakeholders.
The role of a technical business analyst is evolving as businesses increasingly rely on data to make decisions. As a result, technical business analysts need to be able to work with a variety of data sources, including big data and need to be able to analyze and visualize data in a way that is easy to understand.
They also need to stay up-to-date on new technologies and trends so they can recommend the best solutions for their organization. The role of a technical business analyst is challenging but also rewarding, as they get to see the impact of their work firsthand.
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How to Become a Technical Business Analyst in Nigeria
Want to become a Technical business analyst? Follow the steps below:
Earn a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field
Most employers require technical business analysts to have at least a bachelor’s degree (B. Sc) in a relevant field. This can be in computer science, information technology, business, or a similar field. A degree in these areas will provide you with the foundational knowledge and skills you need to succeed as a technical business analyst.
Gain experience working with data analysis tools and techniques
The next step to becoming a technical business analyst in Nigeria is gaining experience with data analysis tools and techniques. This can be done through coursework, internships, or by working in an entry-level job in the field. Learning how to use common data analysis tools, such as Microsoft Excel, SQL, and Tableau, is essential for success in this field.
Many employers in Nigeria prefer to hire technical business analysts who have earned certifications from businesses like the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA) and the Project Management Institute (PMI). These certifications serve as tangible proof of your competence and expertise essential for a successful career as a technical business analyst.
– Build your network and connect with other professionals in the field
In Nigeria, this can be done through professional organizations like the Business Analyst Community of Nigeria (BACN) and the Nigeria Computer Society (NCS). Joining these organizations can give you access to job listings, networking opportunities, and training events.
– Learn about the latest trends and developments in data analytics and business intelligence
To stay relevant in the industry, you need to be updated with trends and newer developments. The data analytics and business intelligence landscape is constantly changing, and it’s important to stay on top of the latest developments. You can do this by reading industry publications, attending training events, and networking with other professionals.
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Technical Business Analyst Job Functions
Here’s an overview of the job functions of a Technical business analyst:
Analyzing and evaluating data systems
This involves working with business users to understand their needs and requirements for new or improved systems. A technical business analyst will gather this information through interviews, surveys, and other forms of research.
They will then analyze the information to create a clear picture of the business requirements. This information is used to develop new systems or make changes to existing systems.
Recommending new data systems or modifications to existing systems
Technical business analysts are responsible for recommending new data systems or modifications to existing systems. They do this by evaluating the company’s current data systems and analyzing the needs of the business.
They consider factors such as cost, efficiency, and scalability and then make recommendations based on their analysis. In some cases, the technical business analyst may also be responsible for implementing the recommended changes.
Working with IT teams to implement and maintain data systems
Technical business analysts work closely with IT teams to implement and maintain data systems. They serve as a bridge between the business and the technical teams, ensuring that the new or modified data systems meet the needs of the business and are implemented correctly.
They may also be involved in troubleshooting and resolving issues with the data systems and providing ongoing support and training to users. In this way, they play a vital role in the smooth operation of the company’s data systems.
Conducting user acceptance testing and training users on new systems
Technical business analysts play a key role in UAT by creating test cases, guiding users through the testing process, and evaluating the results. User acceptance testing (UAT) is a critical part of a technical business analyst’s job. It involves testing a new system to make sure it meets the needs of the users and functions as expected.
This process is important because it helps to catch any errors or problems with the system before it’s rolled out to everyone. They also use their knowledge of user needs to help ensure that the new system is easy to use and meets all requirements.
Evaluating the impact of changes on business operations
Another primary responsibility of a technical business analyst is to assess the potential impact of proposed changes to a company’s business operations. This assessment may include analyzing the potential financial, operational, and organizational effects of the proposed changes to the business and providing recommendations based on this analysis.
By conducting this evaluation, the technical business analyst ensures that any changes made to the business are carefully considered and that the risks and benefits are clearly understood.
Technical Business Analyst Salaries in Nigeria
Based on the survey carried out on Indeed, here’s what to expect for salary as a Technical business analyst in Nigeria:
– Starting salaries for entry-level technical business analysts can be around ₦1,200,000 per year.
– Salaries for experienced technical business analysts can range from ₦6,000,000 per year.
However, salaries can vary depending on the industry, location, and size of the company. For example, salaries in Lagos may be higher compared to other parts as it’s considered the labor market of the country.
Conclusion
To sum it up, a career as a Technical business analyst in Nigeria can be both challenging and rewarding. It offers a variety of opportunities for growth and a competitive salary. Working as a Technical business analyst requires both technical and soft skills and a commitment to learning and staying up to date with the latest developments in the field.
However, if you have the right skills and qualifications, becoming a technical business analyst in Nigeria can be a great choice for your career. In addition, understanding the job functions and salary ranges before making your decision is considered one of the most important steps to take.
