Analysis Overview

Paper Overview

System's analysis can take on a number of forms, however it's the environment itself which most dictates what methods should be utilized by the analyst. Often a "more is better" approach is preferred as multiple data sets lead to an more accurate understanding of the process you're analyzing. However that is not always the case, change averse environments offer a completely different approach to data collection and systems analysis. Within these types of environments change is not only unwelcome, it's often actively thwarted. Therefore more invasive and frequent data collection methods can actually create an hinderance to the analysis process.

Throughout this site I will explore methods and tools available to an analyst operating in a change averse environment. I will also discuss the types of organizations who might be change averse as well as discuss where the aversion to change comes from. Lastly I will discuss approaches to approach these projects as a whole and offer suggestions for the actual implementation of the process or workflow changes. While many individual details will be discussed, the process itself can simply be referred to as change management. Prosci, a change management specialty organization explains why change management is an important aspect of the analysis and implementation process.

When you think about change management, think first of people going through a change, both as individuals and as groups. For example, consider a change that you have been part of at work or at home. How well was that change handled? Did you feel part of the change, or a victim of the change? Did your change have effective change leadership? Change management is the application of a structured process and tools to enable individuals or groups to transition from a current state to a future state, such that a desired outcome is achieved. When change management is done well, people feel engaged in the change process and work collectively towards a common objective, and the outcomes are change projects realizing benefits and delivering results.

https://www.prosci.com/change-management/definition/

Lastly, please keep in mind, the guidelines found throughout this site are simply suggestions based on the author's experience working in change averse organizations. While many methods are explored throughout this paper, a successful analyst will use their own judgement in applying these techniques and will also seek out and use tools not outlined here. If you find the information helpful, or wish to provide your own expertise working in a change averse organization, please use the contact me link to get in touch. I'd enjoy hearing about your experiences.