The Analyst as Story Weaver: Why Requirements Fail When Stories Conflict

Every business change initiative is shaped by stories — about what the problem is, who is responsible, and what success should look like — and when these stories conflict, even well-defined requirements fail to deliver meaningful outcomes.

In this session, Oupa Laka shares a personal business analysis journey that revealed why misalignment is often not a process or tooling problem but a story problem. Drawing on real project experience across complex organisational environments, he introduces a simple story-based analysis approach that helps analysts surface hidden tensions, competing perspectives and unspoken fears that influence decision-making. Participants will actively reflect on a real project and experience how reframing it as a shared story can shift stakeholder conversations from resistance and debate to alignment and progress.

Key Takeaways

• Identify the context shaping stakeholder behaviour.
• Understand what different stakeholders care about.
• Surface the real tension driving the initiative.
• Make the underlying decision explicit.
• Align around what success means in human terms.

About the Speaker

Oupa Laka is a seasoned Business Analysis Consultant, speaker and strategist with over 15 years of experience driving clarity, connection and change across complex environments. He is known for helping teams and leaders unlock insight, navigate ambiguity and deliver solutions that matter.

A sought-after voice in the global business analysis community, Oupa has spoken at renowned conferences including the Business Analysis Summit Southern Africa (where he has also served as Track Chair and Convener), the Global Africa Business Analysis Conference, BA & Beyond, and the IRM UK Business Analysis Conference. He has also brought his signature energy and presence to events as MC and facilitator, creating spaces where people learn, laugh and lead.

With advanced qualifications in business analysis, project leadership and agile product ownership, Oupa brings a rare blend of technical depth, strategic thinking and authentic storytelling. As a seasoned leader, he has mentored aspiring and experienced business analysts, fostering a culture of growth and development, and empowers individuals and organisations to thrive by embracing collaboration, innovation and transformation.