LETTER OF THE DAY - Jamaica needs more market analysts

THE EDITOR, Sir:

I have monitored the Jamaican classifieds for years and have not seen requests for business analysts. It's as if that position does not exist in the thinking of management. No wonder, with our strategic geographic position and the riches that exist in Jamaica, we are still a Third-World country.

When I observe how various governmental and non-governmental agencies operate, I am in a quandary as to why the lights are on and nobody is home. For example, an issue of concern arises resulting in a policy change. But there is no assessment as to the impact of the change on customers (we, the people). There are no analytics to measure the existing process and how the new process will be of benefit. It is only when there is noise in the press that any far-too-late assessment is done.

Here are a few tips for the bureaucrats:

• Does the new process align with strategy and customer requirements?
• Can it pass legal compliance?
• Is it measurable?
• Do you currently have the capacity to perform the process?
• Here is the kicker: Does the process have the flexibility to handle exceptions? Otherwise, it's draconian.
• Does the process have self-regulatory feedback loops?
• Is the process under significant control to secure reliability?

If you can answer the above questions in the affirmative, good job! Otherwise, hire a business analyst and see Jamaica soar!

OLGA BROWNE

colkatol@live

Mandeville, Manchester