Exploring the Agile Mindset with IIBA Adelaide: A Reflective Learning Journey

Over the past few weeks, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to take part in the IIBA Adelaide Agile Study Group, a peer-led initiative focused on deepening our understanding of Agile Business Analysis. In our second session, I was part of a two-person team presenting the topic “Agile Mindset,” which invited us to look beyond frameworks and explore the philosophy behind Agile

📌 What Is an Agile Mindset?

Unlike a fixed process or a set of tools, the Agile mindset is a human-centred, value-driven approach. It encourages:

• Adaptability in the face of change

• Customer-centric thinking

• Collaborative problem solving

• Continuous learning and improvement

We explored how this aligns closely with the Growth Mindset (Dweck, 2006), which values perseverance, openness to feedback, and belief in the ability to improve through effort.

📌 From Principles to Practice

Through a breakdown of the Agile Manifesto's 4 Values and 12 Principles, we discussed how to bring those values to life in real business analysis work. Some of the key takeaways included:

• Deliver value early and often (MVP approach)

• Embrace changing requirements

• Support motivated individuals with autonomy

• Communicate face-to-face for clarity and alignment

• Regularly reflect and adapt as a team

We also participated in a collaboration game using the "Yes, and…" technique to practise open-minded communication—a key skill for building psychological safety and strong team dynamics. During the session, I helped lead the entire room in collaboratively designing features for an assistant robot, demonstrating how Agile thinking can inspire creativity, engagement, and teamwork in action.

🔍 Linking to the BACCM Model

One of my favourite parts of the session was connecting the Business Analysis Core Concept Model (BACCM) to Agile principles—a segment led by my partner. He explored how each core concept—Change, Need, Stakeholder, Value, Solution, and Context—supports a dynamic and value-driven approach to business analysis.

For instance:

• “See the Whole” encouraged us to understand needs within a broader strategic and organisational context.

• “Think as a Customer” reminded us to align solutions with real user pain points and expectations.

• “Avoid Waste” reinforced the importance of delivering lean, focused outputs that truly add value.

💬 Final Reflections

This group study session was more than just a learning experience—it was collaborative, reflective, and empowering. Gaining a deeper understanding of the Agile mindset has strengthened my appreciation for adaptability, humility, and a shared purpose in delivering real value.

IIBA Adelaide has fostered a truly welcoming space where both aspiring and experienced business analysts can learn and grow together. I’m excited to continue this journey and look forward to the upcoming sessions! Reference:

Dweck, C. (2016, January 13). What having a “growth mindset” actually means. Harvard Business Review. https://hbr.org/2016/01/what-having-a-growth-mindset-actually-means