Modelling tools are learning tools. Kolb's circle of learning describes how adults (all people) learn.
Step 1. Concrete Experience. Something that works
Step 2. Reflect and Observe.
Step 3. Abstract and Generalise. Formulate a model to represent reality.
Step 4. Test the hypothesis.
Circle back to Step 1.
In order to learn, the Analyst attempts to model reality. They then test the model. The most effective way to test a model is to try to break it rather than try to prove that it works. Therefore an analyst should focus on things they cannot explain, understand or things that they have a bad feeling about.
It is not always possible to prove a model works, especially models of reality. The model should be defined by the tests it passed, and those that it failed.
Testing a model as important as creating a model for the purpose of learning.
Pair modelling is more effective than analysis performed on its own because whilst one person is creating a model, the other person is testing it. This accellerates both participants around Kolb's circle of learning.
A traditional Business Analyst uses modelling tools to produce artifacts / documents that are used to communicate with software developers.
This is a fundamental misuse of modelling tools.
Using modelling techniques as a communication tool
Posted by chrismatts at June 21, 2003 1:16 PM