Get to Know Our Newest Instructor, Deirdre
Technology Training is now offering Business Analysis sessions that will help you earn a certification in Business Analysis. We are excited to have Ms. Deidre Caren, an internationally recognized expert in the field. She will be presenting these sessions for us.
A Warm Welcome to Deirdre
Deirdre is the founder and director of Agora Insights Ltd, a training, mentoring, and consulting service provider for Business Analysts and Business Architects. Agora Insights is an Endorsed Education Provider (EEP™) with the IIBA® and a Guild Accredited Training Partner™ (GATP™).
She is passionate about improving business outcomes through better training, mentoring, and intentional business design. Over the past 20 years, Deirdre has trained over 5,000 people on various topics, processes, and change initiatives. Deirdre has worked on a broad range of projects within both the public and private sectors. Deirdre has designed and developed business solutions for multiple companies including Coca-Cola, Volkswagen, and Salesforce.
Deirdre is currently undertaking her Masters in Information Studies (MIS). She holds a Bachelor of Arts (BA) Philosophy Honours degree, is a Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP®) and Certified Business Architect (CBA®), along with many other systems/programming related accreditations.
Outside of work, Deirdre enjoys painting large abstracts, traveling, and experiencing different cultures, food, history, and art.
Our Interview with Deirdre
Where did your interest in business analysis originate?
I was first introduced to the concept of Business Analysis in the early 2000s, preceding the International Institute of Business Analysis™ (IIBA®) introduction in 2004. This was due to an extensive SAP integration that was being implemented, and there was a need to do business analysis to support the successful delivery of the program. It was such an exciting time of discovery and opportunity. I have certainly seen how much the profession has grown over the past 20 years.
What makes your classes stand out?
Our courses are designed around everything I believe learners need and want when embarking on their certification journey. Having worked in the field for many years, I can relate to learner questions, and my experience has allowed me to provide real examples and perspectives in the training environment. I want learners to have a one-stop-shop for their learning, to take the stress out of preparing for certification. There is nothing worse than the feeling that you are “missing” something before an exam. I know we are on the right track because learners have said they like the structure, detail, explanations, and “heart” that goes into the course.
What do you think is the next big trend/direction in business analysis and/or business technology in the coming year(s)?
Change is happening rapidly in every industry. As a result, business analysis is in high demand as it plays an essential role in managing change initiatives across the enterprise. I can see that the BA role will have to include, or specialize in, additional skills like cybersecurity, business architecture, digital thinking, and data analytics to keep up with the ever-changing demands.
As you have taught to multiple international audiences, have you found cultural differences impact the process of business analysis?
Actually, no! I was expecting more cultural differences in BA approaches and experience than there are. Most BAs have the same challenges no matter what industry they work in or where they are located. These include challenges with stakeholders, changes in project goals, lack of clarity and projects going in the wrong direction. Ironically it is in the challenges that the BA role is so united around the world, because the intent is aligned. I have often said, “A good BA can work with anyone, in any business, anywhere”.
Learn more about the exciting career and professional opportunities in Business Analysis by enrolling in these upcoming courses:
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