If you're looking to start a career in business analysis, the Entry Certificate in Business Analysis (ECBA) is a great starting point. The ECBA certification is offered by the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA) and is designed to validate your foundational knowledge of business analysis. In this article, we'll go over what topics are covered in the ECBA exam, the exam objectives, and the exam process, including cost, passing mark, time, delivery method, and format.
Exam Objectives:
The ECBA exam covers foundational knowledge in the following areas:
- Business Analysis Planning and Monitoring
- Elicitation and Collaboration
- Requirements Life Cycle Management
- Strategy Analysis
- Requirements Analysis and Design Definition
- Solution Evaluation
The exam is designed to test your knowledge of these topics, so it's essential to study and understand each one.
Who should take the exam?
The ECBA certification is designed for individuals who are new to the business analysis profession or who are looking to validate their foundational knowledge in business analysis. This includes individuals who:
- Are just starting their career in business analysis
- Are currently working in a related field and are looking to transition into business analysis
- Are interested in pursuing a career in business analysis
Prerequisites and Qualifications:
There are no specific prerequisites or qualifications required to take the ECBA exam. However, it's recommended that candidates have at least 21 hours of professional development in business analysis before taking the exam. This can include courses, workshops, and other forms of training in business analysis.
Related Books:
There are several books that can help candidates prepare for the ECBA exam. These include:
- "Business Analysis Body of Knowledge (BABOK) Guide" by IIBA
- "Foundations of Business Analysis" by IIBA
- "Agile Extension to the BABOK Guide" by IIBA
- "Business Analysis Techniques: 99 Essential Tools for Success" by James Cadle, Debra Paul, and Paul Turner
It's important to note that while these books can be helpful in preparing for the exam, they are not required reading and do not guarantee success on the exam.
Exam Details:
The ECBA exam is a computer-based exam consisting of 50 multiple-choice questions. Candidates have 1 hour to complete the exam. The exam is delivered through a Pearson VUE testing center and can be taken online or in person. The cost of the exam varies by country, but in the US, it is $235 for IIBA members and $290 for non-members. Candidates must achieve a minimum score of 50% to pass the exam.
In conclusion, passing the ECBA exam requires a solid understanding of foundational business analysis concepts. By studying the exam objectives and using resources such as the BABOK Guide and other related books, candidates can prepare for the exam and increase their chances of success.