What is a Business Analyst?
Both BCS vs IIBA business analysts are professionals who works to identify and solve business problems and improve organisational performance. They analyse business processes, systems, and data to identify areas for improvement and recommend solutions to stakeholders. Business analysts work across a range of industries and organisations, from small startups to large corporations, and are essential in helping organisations achieve their goals and improve their operations. Their role involves working with stakeholders to define business requirements, conducting feasibility studies, and communicating with technical teams to ensure solutions are implemented effectively.
BCS Introduction
The British Computer Society (BCS), The Chartered Institute for IT, since 2009, is a professional association and academic body that represents those working in the information technology sector, both in the United Kingdom and internationally. Established in 1957, the BCS seeks to promote the progression of computing and Information Technology through education, research, and the formation of specialist standards. The organisation furthermore provides multiple awards, certifications and diplomas related to professional growth and accreditation which are designed to support IT experts in increasing their abilities and furthering their vocations. With more than 60,000 members, the BCS is a leading expert society for the IT industry in the United Kingdom.
IIBA Introduction
The International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA) is a non-profit organisation that is committed to the advancement of the business analysis sector. Established in 2003, the IIBA has grown quickly to be the world's leading association for business analysts, boasting over 29,000 members in 150 countries. The IIBA offers an array of assets, including accreditation programs, professional learning chances, and networking occasions to assist business analysts to upgrade their abilities, sharing their understanding and progress in their careers. The association works intently with industry and government bodies to advance best practices and benchmarks in the field of business analysis and guarantee that the role of business analysts is both perceived and valued by employers and partners.
BCS vs IIBA Differences for Business Analysts
Focus
BCS (British Computer Society) is a professional organisation that concentrates mostly on the IT industry and the progression of technology. In contrast, IIBA (International Institute of Business Analysis) is a non-profit organisation that is solely dedicated to the discipline of business analysis.
Membership
The BCS has an extensive membership base which includes professionals from various industries, including IT, while IIBA particularly caters to business analysts and those engaged in the field of business analysis. You can also become a BCS member and earn the Associate, Professional, RiTTech, Advanced RiTTech, Fellow or Chartered level status, depending on your skills and certifications.
Certification
BCS provides a certification level program for business analysts called the BCS International Diploma in Business Analysis (IDBA), while IIBA offers the Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP) and other associated certifications. Which certification has more presence within your desired industry?
Geographic focus
Although the BCS is internationally known, they mainly focus on the UK and Europe, while IIBA has more international presence with chapters in several countries around the world.
Community
IIBA has an active community of business analysts who network, exchange knowledge and collaborate on multiple initiatives. BCS also possesses a community of business analysts, but it is less concentrated on this area and more on technology and other relevant areas.
Business Analysis exams with the BCS
The BCS offers a range of certification exams for IT professionals, including those focused on business analysis. The exams are typically taken via online proctoring or at Pearson VUE testing centres, which are located in various cities across the UK and around the world.
To take a BCS exam, individuals must first register and pay the exam fee through the BCS website. Once registered, individuals can schedule their exam appointment through Pearson VUE's online scheduling system. On the day of the exam, individuals will need to present a valid form of identification and arrive at the testing centre at least 30 minutes before their scheduled exam time.
The BCS exams are typically computer-based, and candidates will be given a set amount of time to complete the exam. The questions are typically multiple-choice, and the exam is designed to assess the candidate's knowledge and understanding of the subject matter covered in the certification syllabus.
After completing the exam, candidates will receive their results immediately. If they pass the exam, they will receive a digital certificate and a physical certificate will be sent to them by mail. If they fail the exam, they will have the opportunity to retake it at a later date.
Overall, the BCS exams are a convenient and accessible way for individuals to gain certification and demonstrate their expertise in various IT fields, including business analysis.
Business Analysis exams with the IIBA
The IIBA offers a range of certification exams for business analysts, including the Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP) and the Entry Certificate in Business Analysis (ECBA). The exams are computer-based and can be taken at approved testing centres around the world.
To take an IIBA exam, individuals must first register and pay the exam fee through the IIBA website. Once registered, individuals can schedule their exam appointment through Pearson VUE's online scheduling system. On the day of the exam, individuals will need to present a valid form of identification and arrive at the testing centre at least 30 minutes before their scheduled exam time.
The IIBA exams are typically multiple-choice, and the questions are designed to test the candidate's knowledge and understanding of the business analysis profession and its practices. Candidates are given a set amount of time to complete the exam, which varies depending on the specific certification level.
After completing the exam, candidates will receive their results immediately. If they pass the exam, they will receive a digital certificate, and a physical certificate will be sent to them by mail. If they fail the exam, they will have the opportunity to retake it at a later date, although they will need to pay an additional fee to do so.
Overall, the IIBA exams are a rigorous and comprehensive way for individuals to gain certification and demonstrate their expertise in the field of business analysis. The computer-based format and global network of testing centres make it easy and convenient for individuals around the world to take the exam and gain certification.
Conclusion, Should I study with the BCS or IIBA being based in the UK?
Both the British Computer Society (BCS) and the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA) are well-known organisations that offer certifications in business analysis.
If you are based in the UK, the BCS might be a good choice for you, as it is a UK-based organisation and has a strong presence in the UK business analysis community. The BCS offers a range of business analysis courses, including the BCS Foundation Certificate in Business Analysis and the International Diploma in Business Analysis, mentioned earlier. These certifications are well-respected within the UK and can be a valuable addition to your CV.
On the other hand, the IIBA is an international organisation with a global presence. If you are interested in pursuing a career in business analysis outside the UK, then the IIBA might be a better option for you. The IIBA offers certifications such as the Entry Certificate in Business Analysis and the Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP) certification, which are recognised globally and can be valuable for professionals looking to work in multinational organisations.
Ultimately, the choice between the BCS and IIBA will depend on your individual needs and career goals. You might want to consider factors such as the specific certifications offered by each organisation, the cost and time required to obtain the certifications, and the level of recognition each certification has in your target industry and location.
