A business analysis communication management plan is a document that describes how, when, and by whom information about the business analysis activities will be delivered to the stakeholders1. It helps to ensure that the communication is clear, consistent, timely, and appropriate for the audience and the context. One of the aspects that the plan should consider is the cultural differences among the stakeholders, such as their values, beliefs, norms, and preferences. These differences may affect how the stakeholders communicate, collaborate, and make decisions. Therefore, the plan should include a cultural analysis that identifies and addresses the potential challenges and opportunities that may arise from the diversity of the stakeholders2.
According to the BABOK Guide, some of the elements that should be included in the cultural analysis are3:
Relationship to task completion: This refers to how the stakeholders approach and prioritize their work tasks, such as whether they focus on the process or the outcome, whether they prefer individual or team work, whether they are proactive or reactive, etc.
Relationship to authority: This refers to how the stakeholders perceive and interact with the people who have power or influence over them, such as whether they respect or challenge the authority, whether they expect to be consulted or instructed, whether they are comfortable with hierarchy or equality, etc.
Relationship to time: This refers to how the stakeholders manage and value their time, such as whether they are punctual or flexible, whether they follow schedules or improvise, whether they multitask or focus on one thing at a time, etc.
Relationship to religion, on the other hand, is not an element that should be included in the cultural analysis of the plan. Religion is a personal and sensitive topic that may not be relevant or appropriate for the business analysis communication. Moreover, religion may not reflect the actual behavior or preferences of the stakeholders, as they may have different degrees of adherence or interpretation of their faith. Therefore, religion should not be used as a basis for making assumptions or generalizations about the stakeholders4. References:
1: CCBA® and CBAP® Certifications Study Guide, section Task: Plan Business Analysis Communication, page 1
2: How to create a business analysis communication plan, section Cultural analysis, page 3
3: BABOK Guide, section 3.2.5.3 Cultural Analysis, page 47
4: Business Analysis Certification Competencies, CCBA®, section 3.2 Plan Stakeholder Engagement, page 1
