Clear Communication Is Key

It starts with a deep-seated passion for problem solving and hitting on a creative solution that has a real impact. These are key elements when you’re working as a full-stack software application developer. Just ask Madhvi Arora, a graduate of our Certificate Program in Business Analysis and a 20-plus-year senior e-commerce software developer and analyst at AutomationDirect based in the metro Atlanta area.

Here, Madhvi specializes in Java-based e-commerce web applications and is responsible for the full software development lifecycle (SDLC), where she flexes on-the-job learnings to perform requirements analysis, system design, development, testing, deployment and ongoing maintenance of the company’s website and related software applications.

Without even knowing it, she is employing business analysis skills day in and day out. As Madhvi says, “I collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to implement new features, optimize system performance and ensure a seamless user experience while maintaining and enhancing existing applications to meet evolving business needs.

“What keeps me motivated in this role is seeing how the software I build can make a difference, whether it's improving efficiency for businesses or creating better user experiences,” she continues. “I also enjoy the continuous learning aspect of programming: Technology is always evolving and there’s always something new to explore. I also appreciate the collaborative nature of development, where working with teams to build and improve applications creates a dynamic and engaging environment.”

It sounds like you’re flexing business analysis skills already. Why choose to go with a certificate?

We are a small group of developers and wear several hats during the software-development phases. As a developer, I work closely with various stakeholders, gathering and interpreting requirements throughout the software development life cycle. I wanted to become adept at analyzing and arriving at solutions more effectively using knowledge gained from business analysis courses.

Because I was going to be working full time while taking the classes, I wanted a completely online certificate. I found the list of courses and the instructors to be top notch and exactly what was needed to enhance my education.

The combination of instructor support and peer engagement made the learning experience both enriching and collaborative.

Amazing! Tell me about your experience going through the certificate.

The instructors were very informative and helpful throughout the courses. They were always quick to respond to any questions, making it easy to seek clarification and stay on track with the material. Their guidance made a significant difference in understanding complex topics.

A key part of the curriculum involved engaging with fellow students through assignments where we had to read and comment on each other’s responses. This interaction was incredibly valuable, as it not only helped in getting to know my peers, but also provided an opportunity to learn through different perspectives. Seeing how others approached the same subject matter broadened my understanding and deepened my grasp of the concepts being taught.

Overall, the combination of instructor support and peer engagement made the learning experience both enriching and collaborative.

I really appreciated the convenience of taking my classes online. Being able to access the material from anywhere and complete assignments on my own schedule made it easier to balance other responsibilities. The course material was well organized and the assignments were clearly laid out, making it easy to follow along and stay on track.

One of the key takeaways from the class was the importance of clear and consistent communication. I made it a priority to keep all stakeholders updated on project details and milestones, which significantly improved collaboration and alignment.

While taking online classes, did you find you were able to implement lessons learned to your current work?

Most definitely! I saw an instant improvement in how I interacted with my colleagues and various stakeholders. One of the key takeaways from the class was the importance of clear and consistent communication. I made it a priority to keep all stakeholders updated on project details and milestones, which significantly improved collaboration and alignment.

Additionally, I began creating various diagrams to illustrate processes, requirements and workflows—not just for my own understanding, but also as a communication tool to help stakeholders visualize them more effectively. This has made discussions more productive and has helped ensure that everyone is on the same page regarding project workflows.

What does earning this certificate mean to you? 

Earning this certificate is a significant achievement.

Personally, it represents my commitment to continuous learning and growth, reinforcing my confidence in my abilities and knowledge in the field. It’s a great feeling to see my hard work pay off and to know that I have strengthened my skill set.

Professionally, this certificate enhances my qualifications and demonstrates my expertise to colleagues, managers and potential employers. It has already helped me apply new strategies and tools in my work, improving my efficiency and communication with stakeholders.

Moving forward, I believe it will open up new opportunities for career advancement and professional development.

This certificate enhances my qualifications and demonstrates my expertise to colleagues, managers and potential employers.

What advice would you give to a student who is starting the certificate?

Stay organized and actively engage with the course material. Make sure to keep track of deadlines and set aside dedicated time each week to go through the lessons and complete assignments. It's easy to miss deadlines. If there is a family emergency, then inform the instructor as soon as possible.

Also, don’t hesitate to reach out to instructors with any questions—they are very helpful and responsive. Engaging with fellow students by reading and commenting on their work is another great way to enhance learning, as it provides different perspectives on the subject matter.

Finally, try to apply what you learn to real-world situations as soon as possible. Whether it’s in your current job or a personal project, practicing the concepts will reinforce your understanding and make the coursework even more valuable.

Where can we find you in five to 10 years from now?

I see myself advancing in my career, taking on greater responsibilities and making a meaningful impact in my field. I hope to leverage the knowledge and skills gained from this certificate to lead projects, drive innovation and contribute to the success of my organization.

I also plan to continue learning and growing, whether through additional certifications, advanced education or hands-on experience. My goal is to be in a position where I can mentor others, share my expertise and help shape strategies that drive success.

Ultimately, I want to be in a role that challenges me, allows me to make a difference and aligns with my passion for continuous improvement and effective collaboration.