The Product Owner (PO) role is an Agile invention that doesn't naturally occur in organizations. Yet, the PO is arguably the most essential and too often poorest-performed project role. Difficulties often stem from business analysis responsibility attributed to the PO, which many POs are ill-equipped to perform effectively and can create conflicts between the PO and Business Analysts (BAs) when present. Ironically, PO difficulties can be even greater on the many Agile projects that don’t even have BAs, at least not explicitly. Increasingly, experienced BAs seek PO roles, for which they in turn may not be appropriate. This interactive session candidly evaluates each role and suggests ways both can participate to mutual advantage and thereby enhance Agile project success.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify key elements and strengths of effective POs and BAs
• Evaluate challenges each faces, especially BAs acting as POs
• Suggest ways both roles can participate productively to enhance Agile project success