keepITtech: The rise of the tech-savvy Business Analyst: how AI is transforming this role
- ioanadumitru
- Jul 3
- 2 min read
Author: Andreea Hatnean,
IT Business Analyst
The ongoing advancement of AI technologies is no longer just a concern for developers and data scientists. The traditional role of a Business Analyst (BA) - the intermediary between business and IT - is also undergoing a reshaping. Rather than being phased out, the modern BA is becoming a more data-literate, tech-aware, and strategically driven professional.
In this article, we analyse experts’ insights and recent research on how business analysis is adapting in the age of AI, and what this means for the future of the role.
From requirement gatherers to strategic partners
Shifting towards more complex AI systems capable of meeting predefined requirements through voice recognition, processes such as documenting requirements, user story creation, and even diagrammatic representation of workflows are now using automation, which in turn transforms the BA role.
IIBA mentions that “increased automation will also reduce the time spent on mechanical tasks”[1], enabling BAs to focus on matters of greater importance, including alignment with business strategy, solutions architecture, and value realization.
As of now, the BA should not focus on diagnosing “what the system should do” but rather investigate the reasons a solution is necessary and how it aligns with business goals.
Working about, for, and with AI
Today's BAs are becoming more involved in AI projects, not just as observers but also as key facilitators. They leverage AI tools to aid in analysis, generate insights, and summarize interviews. They clarify which business problems AI should focus on and help define use cases for AI systems. Additionally, they explain how AI models make decisions and ensure that the results are ethical, transparent, and fair.
"AI demands that BAs become fluent in data literacy, model interpretation, and outcome-based thinking," according to McKinsey [2].
BAs are uniquely positioned to turn technical models into understandable insights for humans in AI-driven organizations.
Data literacy: an essential proficiency
The modern BA needs to be data fluent, especially as AI systems increasingly rely on clean, structured data. This doesn’t mean becoming a data scientist, but it does mean:
Understanding how data is structured and flows through systems
Being able to interpret analytical trends, dashboards, and KPIs
Challenging or validating data-driven insights by asking the right questions
In a data-driven world, fluency (not expertise!) is the new baseline.
What AI can't yet replace: human empathy and context
Despite all its capabilities, AI lacks emotional intelligence. It cannot handle team conflict, feel organizational politics, or deal with cultural subtlety. These are still the exclusive views of the human BA.
As noted by IIBA, "while AI can synthesize data, it can't replace the BA's ability to facilitate collaboration, interpret nuance, or mediate between conflicting business interests." [3]
Empathy, negotiation, and facilitation remain core strengths for any BA, and as technology becomes more complex, these human-centred skills will only become more valuable.
Emerging new specializations and jobs
Some interesting new hybrid roles are emerging as business analysis keeps transforming:
- AI Business Analyst: Builds and regulates AI/ML applications- Digital Product Analyst: User value and digital experience-focused- Automation Analyst: Intelligent process automation and RPA- Business Data Partner: Analytics team and business stakeholder liaisons
These jobs demonstrate the multidisciplinary approach towards strategy, tech, and human factors.
Final thought
"AI won't replace Business Analysts - but Business Analysts who get AI will replace those that don't."[4]
We truly believe the future belongs to the tech-savvy, insight-driven, and human-centric Business Analyst - someone who sees AI as an enabler, not a threat. By combining emerging technologies with human empathy, BAs will continue to play a powerful role in creating wiser, more responsive organizations.
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