To start with I would like to put up a disclaimer on the following as being only my own individual opinions and experiences. This article is not supported by research or statistics, and is in no way meant to be derogatory, insulting, or meant with any malicious intention. If you do not agree with this then that is fine, everyone is allowed to have their perspective if they allow everyone else to have theirs, and the freedom of choice.
I was recently asked about my experience of bouncing between Australia and New Zealand, what the major differences are and how it related to business analysis. I started writing my response then realised it needed context, and once I was sliding down that rabbit hole⌠well the following happened â a commentary of the underlying cultural differences between AU and NZ (not necessarily restricted to the workplace) and then a summary of what they mean for business analysts.
Societal and Cultural Differences
These differences are the major ones that provide the context of what is different for BAs working in either AU or NZ.
*Communication Styles:*
Australia: Australians tend to be direct and straightforward in their communication. They value clarity and efficiency of language, which can be beneficial in business analysis as it ensures clear requirements and expectations. This can also be confronting, blunt or even insulting if you are unprepared â they donât beat about the bush.
New Zealand: Kiwis are generally more reserved and indirect. They value consensus, being polite, and harmony, which can lead to a more collaborative approach in business analysis, that feels warm and holds less drama. However, this can leave room for doubt, or assumptions where things are implied, and can lead to lengthy circular conversations around a topic instead of through it. Instead of drama we have politics.
**Workplace Hierarchy
Australia: The workplace culture is relatively egalitarian, but there is still a clear hierarchy. Decision-making can be quick, with a focus on results. Sometimes this means people donât feel heard or are not included in a conversation that may affect them.
New Zealand: The workplace is more egalitarian and collaborative. Decision-making often involves seeking input from all levels, which can be beneficial for thorough business analysis. Again, however be aware of those circular conversations and a âneed for everyone to be happyâ with the outcome or the process. Sometimes âyou have to break a few eggs to make an omelette.â
Risk-Taking and Innovation:
Australia: Australians are generally more willing to take risks and embrace innovation. This can lead to more dynamic and fast-paced business environments. This can lead to mistakes being made in this environment, details may be missed/overlooked (although almost expected and accounted for in most processes), and some decisions incur added costs.
New Zealand: Kiwis are more cautious and prefer to take calculated risks. This can result in more stable and sustainable business practices, along with increased red tape, endless reviews and sign offs and a feeling like youâre justifying your existence instead of writing requirements.
Client (when contracting) and Employer Expectations:
Australia: Clients and employers in Australia often expect quick results and are open to innovative solutions. This can be challenging but also rewarding for BAs who thrive in dynamic environments. Sometimes itâs hard to deliver, especially when first starting out, as youâll feel the need to prove yourself early on.
New Zealand: Clients and employers in New Zealand value thoroughness and sustainability. They appreciate detailed analysis and well-thought-out solutions, which can be ideal for BAs who prefer a methodical approach. Sometimes though âthe prescribed processâ becomes king and somewhat restrictive when it comes to âthinking outside the box.â
Impact on Business Analysis
Now with context in hand I present the differences to business analysis/analysts:
Requirement Gathering:
In Australia, the direct communication style can lead to more straightforward requirement gathering. However, BAs need to ensure they capture all details and not just the high-level requirements. Ask more questions if you have doubts, they donât mind answering them.
In New Zealand, the collaborative approach means BAs might spend more time in meetings and discussions to ensure all stakeholders are heard. This can lead to more comprehensive requirements that are held in a document that never gets sign off.
Stakeholder Management:
Australian stakeholders may prefer quick updates and direct communication. BAs need to be concise and clear in their interactions. Short sharp presentations are appreciated more than ensuring everyone has all of the information. If they want it, they will ask for it (be prepared for interrogation, again itâs not personal).
New Zealand stakeholders value relationship-building and consensus. BAs should focus on fostering good relationships and ensuring all voices are considered within the discussion of business needs and requirements. Ensuring everyone âis on the same pageâ before you turn the page will get you further.
Project Management:
In Australia, projects may move at a faster pace with a focus on delivering results quickly. BAs need to be adaptable and ready to handle rapid changes. Thereâs a large shift to Agile that I was seeing, but I look back and event the waterfall projects were in some way Agile, we just didnât know it.
In New Zealand, projects may progress more steadily with a focus on thoroughness and sustainability. BAs can benefit from having detailed plans and ensuring all aspects are well-documented. If you donât document it then itâs not important or didnât happen.
So there it is, not an exhaustive list but the ones that gave me âculture shockâ when moving between the 2 countries. In summary I would say that the differing undercurrent of all of this is that:
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In Australia people tend to compete (at everything from sports through to who can cook the best steak, or whether Ford or Holden is better), but itâs friendly and expected. They donât mind a bit of boasting as long as youâre not being a jerk.
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In NZ people tend to want to be seen to be polite, avoid confrontation, and donât speak their minds (verbally, although the body language and facial expressions betray them). They would much rather avoid directly talking to you about a problem they have (even when itâs with you), and will imply a meaning (and get annoyed when you donât pick up on it).
I would say both have advantages within the BA space, just be aware of the pitfalls too. Hope this helps!