A Non-IT Business Analyst is a professional who works in industries other than information technology, such as finance, healthcare, insurance, and manufacturing, among others. Their role is to help organizations identify business problems and opportunities, and develop solutions that improve their operations, processes, and bottom line. Non-IT Business Analysts use a range of tools and techniques to analyze business processes, gather requirements, and design solutions that meet the needs of their organization. They may work with stakeholders across the organization, including senior management, department heads, and frontline staff.

Non-IT Business Analysts play a critical role in helping organizations identify business problems and opportunities, and develop solutions that improve their operations, processes, and bottom line. Here are some of the key reasons why Non-IT Business Analysts are important:

1.    Identifying business problems and opportunities: Non-IT Business Analysts are skilled at analyzing business processes and identifying areas where improvements can be made. By identifying business problems and opportunities, they help organizations to stay competitive and responsive to changing market conditions.

2.    Improving efficiency and productivity: Non-IT Business Analysts work with stakeholders to identify inefficiencies in business processes and develop solutions that improve efficiency and productivity. This can help organizations to save time and money, and improve their overall performance.

3.    Facilitating communication and collaboration: Non-IT Business Analysts work with stakeholders across different departments or teams to gather requirements and develop solutions. By facilitating communication and collaboration between different stakeholders, they help to ensure that everyone is on the same page and working towards the same goals.

4.    Ensuring compliance: Non-IT Business Analysts are often responsible for ensuring that their organization complies with industry regulations and standards. This can help organizations to avoid costly fines and legal issues, and maintain their reputation in the industry.

5.    Supporting strategic decision-making: Non-IT Business Analysts provide valuable insights and data that can be used to support strategic decision-making. By providing stakeholders with accurate and timely information, they help to ensure that decisions are based on solid data and analysis.

To become a Non-IT Business Analyst, you can follow these steps:

1.    Obtain a bachelor's degree: Most Non-IT Business Analyst positions require a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as business administration, finance, accounting, or economics.

2.    Gain relevant work experience: Many employers prefer candidates with relevant work experience, such as experience in business analysis, project management, or related fields.

3.    Develop key skills: Non-IT Business Analysts need to have strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills. They should also be proficient in using tools such as Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and Visio.

4.    Consider obtaining certifications: There are several certifications available for Non-IT Business Analysts, such as Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP) or Project Management Professional (PMP).

5.    Build a professional network: Joining professional organizations or attending industry events can help you build a professional network, which can be valuable for finding job opportunities and staying up-to-date with industry trends.

6.    Apply for jobs: Once you have the necessary qualifications and experience, you can start applying for Non-IT Business Analyst positions. Job titles may include Business Analyst, Financial Analyst, Operations Analyst, or Management Analyst, among others.

Here are some courses that can help individuals looking to pursue a career as a Non-IT Business Analyst:

1.    Business Analysis Essentials: This course covers the fundamentals of business analysis, including problem-solving techniques, requirements gathering, and stakeholder management. It is offered by the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA).

2.    Lean Six Sigma Green Belt: This certification covers lean manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies, which can be useful for improving business processes and reducing waste. It is offered by several organizations, including the American Society for Quality (ASQ).

3.    Financial Analysis: Non-IT Business Analysts often need to analyze financial data and understand financial statements. Courses in financial analysis, such as those offered by Coursera, can be useful for developing these skills.

4.    Strategic Planning: Non-IT Business Analysts may also be involved in developing and implementing strategic plans for their organization. Courses in strategic planning, such as those offered by the Association for Strategic Planning (ASP), can be useful for developing these skills.

5.    Operations Management: This course covers the principles of operations management, including inventory management, supply chain management, and quality control. It is offered by several organizations, including Coursera.

6.    Leadership and Management: Non-IT Business Analysts may also be involved in managing teams or leading projects. Courses in leadership and management, such as those offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI), can be useful for developing these skills.

Here are some common pain-points that Non IT Business Analysts may experience:

1.    Difficulty in understanding the business: Non IT Business Analysts must have a deep understanding of the business, its products, services, and processes. However, gaining this understanding can be challenging, especially in complex organizations or industries with specialized jargon.

2.    Stakeholder management: Non IT Business Analysts must work with various stakeholders, including business leaders, project managers, and subject matter experts. Managing these relationships and ensuring that stakeholders are aligned can be challenging, especially when there are conflicting priorities.

3.    Unclear requirements: Non IT Business Analysts are responsible for gathering and documenting requirements for projects or initiatives. However, stakeholders may not always have a clear idea of what they want, or their requirements may change throughout the project, leading to confusion and delays.

4.    Resistance to change: Non IT Business Analysts may encounter resistance from stakeholders who are resistant to change or who do not see the value in a proposed initiative. Convincing these stakeholders to buy-in can be challenging, especially when there is a lack of clear metrics or ROI.

5.    Limited resources: Non IT Business Analysts may be working with limited resources, including time, budget, and personnel. This can make it challenging to deliver on project objectives or meet stakeholder expectations.

6.    Managing scope creep: Non IT Business Analysts must ensure that projects are delivered within scope, budget, and timeline. However, stakeholders may request additional features or changes that are outside the scope of the project, leading to scope creep and project delays.