The evolving role of business analysis in the age of enterprise agentic AI

Abstract

The integration of agentic artificial intelligence (agentic AI) into the software development life cycle (SDLC) and business process transformation presents a critical tension between speed and rigour. Organisations, in their rush to automate, risk overlooking the disciplined analysis essential for strategic alignment, value realisation and risk mitigation. This paper argues that, far from diminishing, the role of business analysis (BA) and business analysts (BAs) becomes more vital in the age of agentic AI. The BA must evolve beyond traditional requirements gathering to become a ‘context architect’ and ‘strategic enabler’, bridging business intent, AI capability, and human-in-the-loop (HITL) adoption. Effective analysis is necessary to prevent ‘AI slop’ and ‘AI drift’, ensure compliance and design sustainable hybrid human–AI systems. The paper proposes the needed shift in thinking about the BA’s role and expanding BA competencies, concluding that elevating business analysis to a strategic capability is essential for achieving resilient, responsible and value-driven intelligent enterprise transformation. This article is also included in The Business & Management Collection which can be accessed at https://hstalks.com/business/.