Brainy Glue: Making Change Stick
by Ian Richards and Filip Hendrickx, 14 september 2021
Who
Ian Richards:
Ian Richards is a seasoned professional with extensive experience in business analysis and change management across diverse sectors. His career highlights include:
Director, Business Analysis at Peregrine:Ian currently leads business analysis initiatives at Peregrine, leveraging his expertise to drive strategic projects and optimize organizational processes.
Director, Business Analysis at Capita: During his tenure at Capita, Ian spearheaded transformative projects and implemented structured change management methodologies to support strategic objectives.
Head of Business Analysis at Capita People Solutions: Ian played a key role in process re-engineering and business optimization, leading the business analysis function at Capita People Solutions.
Principal Business Architect at Serco: As a Principal Business Architect, Ian contributed significantly to bidding processes and transitional/transformational projects within Serco.
Principal Consultant - Lead Fujitsu Business Analyst
Ian led business analysis teams at Fujitsu, overseeing large-scale analysis phases and ensuring the integrity of project requirements.Author and Innovator:
“Brainy Glue”: Together with Filip Hendrickx, Ian authored this engaging business novel that underscores the significance of holistic business analysis, innovation, and change management.
Filip Hendrickx:
Filip Hendrickx is a multifaceted professional who seamlessly blends business analysis and innovation. His background includes:
Business Consultant and Coach: With over a decade in business consulting, Filip assists organizations in achieving strategic goals and becoming effective innovators.
Software Engineering and Research: Filip’s early career involved software engineering and research, providing him with a solid foundation.
BA Community Builder:
Co-Founder of BA & Beyond Conference: Filip played a pivotal role in establishing this conference, fostering the business analysis (BA) profession.
IIBA Brussels Chapter President: His leadership contributed significantly to growing the BA community in and around Belgium.
Award-Winning Volunteer: Filip’s dedication earned him the 2022 IIBA EMEA Region Volunteer of the Year Award.
Author and Innovator:
“Brainy Glue”: Together with Ian Richards, Filip authored this engaging business novel, emphasizing the importance of holistic business analysis, innovation, and change.
“Digital Product Management and Cycles”: Filip co-authored these books, providing insights into effective product management and faster innovation.
Book Summary:
"Brainy Glue: Making Change Stick" by Ian Richards and Filip Hendrickx is a business novel that offers a unique perspective on business analysis, innovation, and change. The book is designed to be read from cover to cover and is written in a conversational theatrical style that makes it both engaging and educational.
The story revolves around Abbie Townsend and other characters who implement business analysis methods or experience the effects of change and innovation in their environment. It provides a thorough explanation of what a business analyst does on different occasions throughout a mission or project. It introduces various business analysis elements, tools and techniques, showing how change and innovation occur in small, incremental steps.
The authors draw from their vast experience in the industry to explain various business analysis techniques, such as power-interest grids, benefits mapping, and the 5 whys, in a real-life corporate setting. They also incorporate elements of drama, humor, and romance to make the book an entertaining read and a valuable teaching tool.
Overall, "Brainy Glue" is a comprehensive case study that explains why good business analysis is required, what is involved in a business analysis study, and how it is relevant to businesses everywhere. It's praised for its engaging characters and the realistic portrayal of the challenges and rewards of being a business analyst.
Book Review:
"Brainy Glue" offers several positive aspects that make it a captivating and educational read for a wide audience. We have got feedback that this book is presented and easily readable by High School Students.
Firstly, its engaging narrative style captivates readers from beginning to end, ensuring sustained interest throughout. This narrative approach effectively translates complex business analysis techniques into practical, understandable concepts, making it accessible to various readers with different levels of expertise. Furthermore, the incorporation of real-life scenarios from business analyst offices enhances the book's relatability and underscores the practical application of the discussed techniques. The well-developed characters and their journeys not only enrich the educational content but also add depth to the overall narrative. Additionally, the infusion of humor, drama, and a touch of romance contributes to the book's entertainment value while maintaining its educational focus.
However, despite these strengths, "Brainy Glue" could benefit from some areas of improvement for more avid and picky readers. While it provides a comprehensive overview, some readers may desire a deeper exploration of certain business analysis techniques. Balancing the storyline with educational content can also be a challenge, as some readers might prefer a greater emphasis on one aspect over the other. Additionally, individuals with extensive backgrounds in business analysis may find themselves craving more technical detail and advanced discussions that delve deeper into the subject matter.
Overall, despite these areas for improvement, "Brainy Glue" succeeds in delivering valuable insights through an engaging narrative that bridges the gap between theory and practical application, catering to a diverse audience interested in enhancing their business acumen.
Practical and Technical Benefits for Project Managers:
"Brainy Glue" stands out as an invaluable resource for project managers seeking to enhance their skills in change management and business analysis. The book's practical benefits are immediately evident through its use of real-world scenarios, allowing project managers to connect theory with tangible applications in their professional settings.
Practical Benefits:
Real-World Scenarios: The book presents business analysis and change management concepts through engaging, real-world scenarios that project managers can relate to and apply in their own work.
Structured Approach: It advocates for a structured yet pragmatic approach to change, bridging various methodologies like business analysis, product management, design thinking, lean startup, and innovation techniques.
Incremental Change: The narrative emphasizes the importance of small, iterative changes, which aligns with modern project management practices that favor agility and flexibility.
Technical Benefits:
Business Analysis Techniques: Project managers will gain insights into technical business analysis techniques that can be directly applied to their projects to ensure better outcomes.
Tools and Diagrams: The book includes key takeaways, avatars, and diagrams that serve as quick references and visual aids for complex concepts.
Comprehensive Case Study: It provides a comprehensive case study that elucidates why business analysis is essential, detailing the processes involved and their relevance to businesses.
For project managers looking to refine their approach to managing change and innovation, “Brainy Glue” serves as both a guide and a companion, offering a blend of narrative-driven learning and technical know-how.
In summary, “Brainy Glue: Making Change Stick” is a business novel that adeptly combines storytelling with practical insights into business analysis and change management. While it may not delve into advanced technical details, its engaging narrative and relatable characters make it a valuable resource for both novices and seasoned professionals. The authors’ innovative approach bridges theory and practice, leaving readers inspired to navigate the complexities of organizational transformation.
