The role of a business analyst is pivotal in discovering, synthesizing, and analyzing information from various sources within an enterprise. This includes gathering data from tools, processes, documentation, and stakeholders. Business analysts are tasked with eliciting the true needs of stakeholders, which often involves investigating and clarifying their expressed desires to determine underlying issues and causes. They play a crucial role in aligning the designed and delivered solutions with the needs of stakeholders, ensuring that the outcomes meet business objectives effectively.
References: This definition and explanation of the business analyst's responsibilities are consistent with the standards set by the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA) and the Business Analysis Body of Knowledge (BABOK) Guide123.