Hosted by Deirdre Caren on Agora Insights' Blueprints for Success: Business Analysis -Delivering project outcomes, learning through teaching, and the importance of personal branding.
Introduction
I had pleasure of speaking with a sincere and professional, Angelo Kalavela, known widely as "Angelo the BA." With over 14 years of experience in business analysis and a master's degree in user experience design, Angelo embodies a unique blend of analytical and creative skills, much needed in this field today. With other professionals in mind who face the challenge of delivering impactful project outcomes while continuously evolving their skills and personal brands, Angelo shares his learning. So in this blog, we take a closer look at Angelo's insights on delivering project outcomes, learning through teaching, and the importance of personal branding.
Let's get started...
Background
Angelo began his career as a business analyst immediately after graduating from school, driven by a determination to become a world-class professional in his field. Recognizing the importance of formal education and credentials, he pursued certification in business analysis as one of the first major steps in his journey. This commitment to personal and professional development has included extensive coursework, training, mentorship, and hands-on experience in the industry. Along the way, Angelo discovered user experience design through opportunities to collaborate with UX firms on various projects. Fascinated by their work, he began studying different aspects of UX design to fill skill gaps within his teams, especially when resources for consulting were limited.
As his interest in user experience deepened, Angelo pursued a master’s degree in user experience design, which allowed him to take on the role of UX lead for his team. This experience paved the way for his current position as the User Experience Strategist for his organization, where he develops and implements best practices in user experience from high-level strategy to execution. In addition to his pursuit of excellence, Angelo is passionate about helping others grow and succeed. He leads the business analysis center of practice within his organization, facilitating training in business analysis, user experience design, and agile best practices for all analysts in the department. His commitment to mentorship extends beyond professional development, as he has also coached teams in annual fitness challenges, demonstrating his dedication to fostering growth in all areas of life.
Three Key Topics
1. Delivering Project Outcomes
Angelo emphasizes that delivering project outcomes is not merely about completing tasks but about achieving results that resonate with stakeholder expectations and user needs. He believes that successful project delivery hinges on clear communication and collaboration among team members. A project can only be deemed successful when it fulfills the intended goals and delivers value to the end users.
To ensure effective project outcomes, Angelo advocates for a thorough understanding of both business analysis and user experience. This dual perspective allows him to bridge the gap between technical and non-technical stakeholders. By facilitating discussions that align everyone’s expectations, he helps teams focus on the end goals rather than getting lost in the minutiae of the project. He shares that it’s crucial to involve users early in the process to gather feedback and validate ideas, ensuring that the final product meets their needs.
Angelo also highlights the importance of setting measurable objectives at the outset of any project. By defining key performance indicators (KPIs) and success metrics, teams can track progress and make data-driven decisions throughout the project lifecycle. This approach not only keeps everyone accountable but also allows for adjustments to be made in real-time, ultimately leading to a more successful outcome.
2. Learning by Teaching
Another significant theme in Angelo's discussion is the concept of learning by teaching. He passionately believes that sharing knowledge can be one of the most effective ways to reinforce one’s understanding of a subject. Through his YouTube channel, Angelo creates content that not only educates others but also solidifies his own grasp of business analysis and UX principles.
When he teaches, he often finds that articulating complex concepts helps him think critically about the material. Responding to audience questions and feedback creates a dynamic learning environment where both he and his viewers benefit. Angelo notes that this reciprocal relationship fosters a culture of continuous learning. As he explores new topics and interacts with his audience, he stays engaged and informed about the latest trends and best practices in his field.
Furthermore, Angelo encourages professionals to embrace the idea of mentorship. By guiding others, whether through formal coaching or informal conversations, individuals can enhance their own skills while contributing to the growth of their peers. He shares that the act of teaching not only builds confidence but also creates a supportive community where knowledge is freely exchanged.
"I would say I am passionate about continuous positive growth for myself and the people around me."
- Angelo Kalevela
3. The Importance of Personal Branding
In today’s digital landscape, personal branding has become essential for professionals seeking to establish themselves in their respective fields. Angelo underscores the significance of authenticity and openness in building a personal brand that resonates with others. He believes that sharing one’s journey, experiences, and insights fosters trust and credibility among peers and clients alike.
A strong personal brand helps professionals differentiate themselves in a competitive market. Angelo encourages individuals to embrace their unique experiences and perspectives, as these elements are crucial in creating a memorable and impactful brand. By showcasing their expertise and passions, professionals can attract opportunities for collaboration and networking.
Angelo also highlights the role of social media in personal branding. He suggests that professionals actively engage with their audience by sharing valuable content, participating in discussions, and showcasing their work. This not only enhances visibility but also positions individuals as thought leaders in their field. By consistently providing value and demonstrating expertise, professionals can cultivate a loyal following that supports their career aspirations.
Ten Learning Points
1. Successful project outcomes require alignment with stakeholder expectations and user needs.
2. Clear communication and collaboration among team members are essential for project success.
3. Understanding both business analysis and UX can bridge gaps between technical and non-technical stakeholders.
4. Setting measurable objectives and KPIs at the outset helps track progress and make data-driven decisions.
5. Learning by teaching reinforces one’s understanding and creates a dynamic learning environment.
6. Mentorship fosters growth and enhances skills for both mentors and mentees.
7. Authenticity and openness are crucial in building a personal brand.
8. Unique experiences and perspectives contribute to a memorable personal brand.
9. Active engagement on social media enhances visibility and positions professionals as thought leaders.
10. Continuous learning and adaptation are vital in the ever-evolving landscape of business analysis and UX.
Close
In our conversation, Angelo Kalevela provided profound insights into delivering project outcomes, learning through teaching, and the importance of personal branding. His approach to business analysis and UX design emphasizes collaboration, effective communication, and a commitment to continuous learning. As we continue to navigate the evolving world of business analysis and user experience, let us take inspiration from Angelo's journey and insights. By prioritizing these key themes, we can all work towards building successful careers and making a lasting impact in our fields.
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Contact Deirdre Caren on LinkedIn
About Angelo Kalevela
Angelo Kalevela is a dedicated business analyst, YouTuber, and UX designer with a passion for helping professionals navigate their careers. He leverages his expertise to create engaging content that educates and inspires others in the fields of business analysis and user experience. Through his work, Angelo emphasizes the importance of continuous learning, collaboration, and personal branding, making him a respected voice in the industry.
https://metabusinessanalyst.com/
Post sponsored by Agora Insights Ltd
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