The Power of Solution Evaluation: Realizing and Enhancing Value

Ishara Ilangasinghe
2 min readFeb 1, 2024

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In the world of business analysis, it's not just about creating solutions but ensuring they deliver real value. Solution Evaluation, a vital part of the BABOK v3, focuses on assessing how well a solution performs and recommending improvements for maximum benefits.

Photo by Kaleidico on Unsplash

What Makes Solution Evaluation Special?

Unlike other phases like Strategy Analysis or Requirements Analysis, Solution Evaluation deals with solutions already in action. It could be a prototype, a pilot release, or the full deal. The key is, it's out there, making a difference.

Breaking Down the Value Journey

Solution Evaluation isn't about theoretical possibilities; it's about tangible outcomes. We look at prototypes, pilot releases, and operational solutions to see what's working and what needs tweaking. It's like a journey from 'what could be' to 'what actually is.'

Tasks that Make a Difference

1. Measure Solution Performance: Figure out how to assess the solution's performance aligned with business goals.

2. Analyze Performance Measures: Dive into data to understand how well the solution is meeting current business needs.

3. Assess Solution Limitations: Identify issues within the solution's scope that might be holding it back.

4. Assess Enterprise Limitations: Look at broader issues outside the solution affecting the enterprise's ability to reap full benefits.

5. Recommend Actions to Increase Solution Value: Suggest concrete actions to boost the value delivered by the solution.

The Business Analysis Core Concept Model (BACCM) guides us. It reminds us that every change, need, solution, stakeholder, value, and context is interconnected. Each concept plays a unique role in the Solution Evaluation dance.

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Why Solution Evaluation Matters

Solution Evaluation ensures we go beyond theories. We actively engage with real solutions, making sure they not only meet expectations but continuously improve. BAs should know Solution Evaluation to make sure solutions actually work, maximize value, and keep improving. It helps them align with business goals, adapt to changes, and satisfy stakeholders.

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Ishara Ilangasinghe

Business Analyst | Speaker at Write the Docs Australia 2022 | Senior Technical Writer at WSO2 | Toastmaster | MBA | BEng