When planning, how often do you create alternative scenarios to help you adjust to changing situations?
"Nothing in business is guaranteed; that is one thing I know for sure. I always create 'what-ifs' because I know that plans change quickly, especially where multiple decision-makers are involved in getting to the finish line. Plan B is always ready to go."
A talented business analyst will have the ability to pivot, adapt, and change at a moments' notice. As a business analyst, you know that problem-solving and thinking outside the box when it comes to changing situations is a valuable skill set. Talk to the interviewer about your ability to create a variety of potential scenarios for your clients and accounts. You may never need to take on these scenarios; however, it's excellent for the interviewer to know that you can adapt your plan on the fly.
"I love having contingency plans. A business analyst needs to understand that ideally, we will do 'X,' but if that fails, we need to be ready to pivot and make sure that 'Y' happens. Having alternate scenarios mapped out takes out the uncertainty and is sure to prepare everyone to adapt if a problem should arise."
Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.
Anonymous Answer
There are no guaranteed outcomes, so I think it is important to have contingency plans consistently. Especially when there are many stakeholders involved, it is good practice to answer their "what if this happens" questions and instill confidence that the team can adapt. Whether creating a sensitivity scenario Excel model or finding a different technical solution, it is essential to understand how the pivot would occur and be handled.
Rachelle's Feedback
Good answer! It seems that you put a lot of effort into making sure stakeholder questions are answered and that you have a contingency plan in place whenever possible.
Anonymous Answer
There is not much guarantee that we can talk about business in general. I do design "what if..." scenarios. I maintain a diary to note down my ideas, and then if I have an idea that would work in a current situation, I would apply that Idea.
Rachelle's Feedback
It's great that you work to create alternate scenarios. If you have an example of a time when you had to use an alternate scenario, be sure to give a story-based example using the STAR framework (Situation, Task, Action, Result).
"I understand that there is not much that we can guarantee when it comes to business. For that reason, I always design 'what if' scenarios. I maintain a diary and note down my ideas. If I feel that I need to deploy an alternate scenario, I am ready to apply a new approach. For instance (if you can, offer a story-based example using the STAR framework)."
Unlock all 30 Business Analyst questions
Unlock expert responses to technical and behavioral questions that bridge business and IT.
Get Started