In which phase(s) of the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) do Business Analysts typically contribute?

Business Analysts play a crucial role throughout the entire Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC). Their contributions begin in the planning phase, where they help define the project scope, gather requirements, and identify the needs of stakeholders and users. These insights are foundational for setting the direction of the project.

During the analysis phase, Business Analysts conduct detailed requirements gathering and analysis, ensuring that the needs and expectations of stakeholders are fully understood and documented. This includes creating use cases, workflows, and specifications that guide the design and development stages.

In the design and implementation phases, Business Analysts continue to contribute by translating requirements into functional specifications that developers can use to build the system. They often clarify requirements, assist in making design decisions, and ensure that the implementation aligns with stakeholder expectations. Their ongoing involvement helps bridge communication between technical teams and stakeholders, facilitating a smoother development process.

Given this broad involvement across all phases, the correct answer reflects the integral role Business Analysts play throughout the entire SDLC, emphasizing their importance in not just one, but multiple phases of the project lifecycle.