Ace the CBAP Exam 2025 – Unleash Your Business Analysis Superpowers!

Using observation as an elicitation technique can take on different forms, primarily categorized as passive and active approaches.

In the passive approach, the business analyst observes the subject without direct interaction. This method allows for the collection of natural, unfiltered data about how processes occur in real life. By remaining unobtrusive, the analyst can gain insights into workflows, team dynamics, and user interactions that might be distorted if participants are aware they are being observed. This approach is particularly useful for understanding routine tasks and behaviors as they happen in a typical context.

The active approach, on the other hand, involves the analyst engaging with participants during the observation process. This might include asking questions or encouraging participants to explain their actions in real-time. The active technique allows for deeper understanding and clarification of behaviors and processes as they are observed, enabling real-time feedback and insights.

Choosing between these approaches depends on the goals of the observation and the context in which it is being performed. By understanding and effectively employing both passive and active observations, a business analyst can obtain a richer, more comprehensive understanding of the business processes and user experiences.