AI and the Future of Business Analysis Roles

In this episode of Business Analysis Live!, Susan Moore is joined by Deirdre Caren, Founder and Director of Agora Insights Ltd, for an in-depth conversation about the evolving role of business analysts in the age of AI. They discuss what it means to treat AI as a stakeholder, not just a tool, and why documenting alone is no longer enough to call yourself a business analysis professional in the AI era. They unpack the concept of prompt engineering—highlighting how business analysts are already well-equipped for it—and explore the mindset shifts required to adapt through learning and unlearning. The conversation turns to the value of context making, the importance of conceptual models, and how AI can enhance human skills rather than replace them. You’ll also hear about real examples of AI agents trained for business analysis and architecture roles, and how BAs can play a key part in shaping AI strategy within their organizations. Whether you're curious, cautious, or fully immersed in AI, this episode will inspire you to think critically about your future in the profession.

🎙️Episode Highlights

• What it means to treat AI as a stakeholder
• Why documenting isn’t enough in the AI era
• The role of prompt engineering and how BAs are already doing it
• Adapting to change through learning and unlearning
• Data, context, and the importance of conceptual models
• Real examples of AI agents trained for BA and architecture roles
• How AI enhances—not replaces—human skills
• Empowering BAs to influence AI strategy within organizations

🔗 Resources

• Connect with Deirdre on LinkedIn
• Learn more about Agora Insights and their offerings
• Read from Deirdre’s AI Library

Business Analysis Live is hosted by Susan Moore, Community Engagement Manager with the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA). We talk with business analysis professionals about business analysis topics and answer questions from our live audience.

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The International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA) is anon-profit professional association serving the field of business analysis. As the global thought leader and voice of the business analysis community, IIBA actively supports the recognition of the profession, and works to maintain global standards for the ongoing development of the practice and certifications.

Learn more at ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.iiba.org/

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