Small businesses make critical decisions every day, often with limited time, data, and resources. While business analysis techniques are powerful, many are designed for large organizations and can feel overwhelming or impractical in small business environments. As a result, owners and advisors may rely on instinct rather than structured thinking, increasing the risk of missed opportunities or avoidable errors.
In this session, Tamara Copple introduces the concept of “just enough” business analysis. Participants will explore how core BA techniques can be simplified and adapted to fit the realities of small businesses, where speed, clarity, and value matter more than extensive documentation or heavy processes.
The discussion focuses on identifying the minimum analysis needed to support sound decision-making. Tamara will highlight practical approaches for framing problems, evaluating options, and clarifying priorities without adding unnecessary complexity. Attendees will learn how to choose techniques that deliver the greatest value when resources are scarce and decisions need to be made quickly.
This session is especially relevant for Business Analysts working with small businesses, consultants supporting entrepreneurs, and professionals embedding analysis into small-scale operations. Participants will leave with a streamlined BA toolkit they can apply immediately, helping small organizations make better decisions while staying focused, agile, and human-centered.
INSTRUCTOR PROFILE
Tamara Copple is the cofounder and Lead Business Consultant at Grand River Analytics. She is a speaker and community organizer for multiple professional groups and a passionate advocate for thoughtful, practical business analysis. Always a Business Analyst at heart, Tamara mentors tech and tech-adjacent professionals in mastering their craft with empathy and humanity, especially in the evolving age of AI.
Her work centers on helping individuals and organizations apply analysis in ways that are realistic, impactful, and aligned with human decision-making. Through her consulting, speaking, and mentoring, Tamara brings clarity to complex problems while keeping people at the center of the solution.