BA Technique Review: Acceptance and Evaluation Criteria

A technique for defining and assessing the expected conditions of an ideal solution

A method that Business Analysts can use to determine if a solution meets the desired objectives of a project is the Acceptance and Evaluation Criteria technique. Check below a summary of what it is, why it is used, how to apply this technique, its strengths and limitations.

· What?

Acceptance and Evaluation Criteria is a business analysis technique used to define a series of conditions that we want to make available in the ideal solution.

· Why?

Because it is necessary to measure what is being accepted or evaluated in terms of the solutions offered. While the Acceptance criteria are used to define the requirements, results, or conditions that must be met for a solution to be considered acceptable by key stakeholders. Evaluation criteria are used to determine the measures used to assess requirements when evaluating to choose between different solutions.

· How?

The Acceptance and Evaluation Criteria technique includes two main elements: Value Attributes and Assessment. The application of this technique can be performed through the following actions:

1. Define Value Attributes — Firstly, Business analysts should define the qualities that the solution must possess or avoid.

2. Endorse Value Attributes — Secondly, Business analysts must ensure that all stakeholders agree upon the definition of all value attributes.

3. Design assessment — Thirdly, Business analysts must define all tools, instructions, conditions, and measures to be used when carrying out the assessment. The assessment should be in a measurable format, considering: