Research and Findings

The following empirical research examines business analysis centers of excellence (BACoEs): how they are structured, why they succeed, and why they fail. This research addresses questions that consulting literature and methodology frameworks rarely examine with empirical rigor. Findings inform the frameworks in Business of Analysis: How to Build, Launch, and Sustain a High-Performance Business Analysis Capability and extend them with evidence drawn from organizational practice.

This research program comprises five studies drawing on mixed-methods designs. All five studies employed case-based designs drawing on in-depth interviews, document analysis, and direct observation. Three studies employed longitudinal case designs ranging from 24 to 48 months, tracking cases at multiple points to observe developmental progression. Two studies employed extended observational case designs over 24 months, tracking cases chronologically to understand repositioning mechanisms and failure patterns. Three studies included survey components totaling 381 BACoE and business analysis function leaders, with one study additionally incorporating content analysis of 325 job postings. Organizational contexts span financial services, healthcare, technology, manufacturing, retail, insurance, and other sectors.

Studies employed quantitative methods including cluster analysis, hierarchical multiple regression, logistic regression, configurational analysis, and fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis alongside qualitative methods including content analysis, pattern matching, process tracing, and the Gioia methodology. Findings consistently demonstrate that political factors outweigh technical capability in determining BACoE outcomes. This is a pattern that emerges independently across every study in this series.

The Business of Analysis: How to Build, Launch, and Sustain a High-Performance Business Analysis Capability applies these research findings to practical implementation.

For consulting or speaking engagements informed by this research, visit the Contact page.