QUESTION 12 OF 29

One of the critical functions of an IT Business Analyst is to mitigate risks. Can you describe how risk differs from a business issue?

Explanation: This is a technical question which the interviewer is using to see if you know the difference between two similar tasks common to this role. When asked a question comparing different items, you should answer by first describing each item, discussing the differences between them. You may want to provide some examples of how you would use these concepts, processes, or technologies to perform your job.

"I define risk as either a problem or event that may occur during a project and would have a negative impact on the outcome of the project. When encountering a risk, I try to quantify it in terms of the percentage of probability that it will occur and the impact it would have on the project. An issue is something that needs to be addressed to move forward with the project. Issues can be known in advance or can be uncovered as the project or analysis progresses. An example of this is the impact of proposed legislation related to a product or service the company is planning to launch. The legislation is the issue while ignoring it is the risk."

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Anonymous Answer

Risk is the possibility of something negative happening, for example, having unnecessary ports open on your firewall carries the risk of a malicious actor using them to enter your network. While a business issue is an actual problem or situation a business has, for example having cash flow reserves of a week is not a risk or an actual problem the business has. Risk can be mitigated thus reducing the likelihood of the negative outcome taking place, closing the unnecessary ports. While the business issues can be solved, reduced unnecessary expenses to increase your cash flow.

Amanda's Feedback

This is a solid response! You've concisely explained the difference between risk and business issues using simple examples that anyone can understand.

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IT Business Analyst Mock Interview

One of the critical functions of an IT Business Analyst is to mitigate risks. Can you describe how risk differs from a business issue?

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29 IT Business Analyst Interview Questions & Answers