If I ask you, What do you need? you might respond, What can I get?
The takeaway? We’re not always aware of our own needs.
It’s a common assumption that Business Systems Analysts gather requirements by consulting Business Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) and key users. But here’s the catch—SMEs don’t always know what’s possible. That’s how enterprises end up with systems that technically meet the stated needs but fall short of what’s truly valuable.
A better approach? Consultants should go beyond simply documenting requirements. They should bring insights, showcasing system capabilities, workflows, and reporting features that teams and departments might need—drawing from real-world experience with similar organisations.
Take Local Governments, for example. While each council has its own nuances, their core business capabilities and responsibilities are largely the same. That’s why decision-makers need to push for more than just system adoption—they need IT and Business System teams to take extra steps to bridge the gap between what’s asked for and what’s actually needed for long-term success.
