What method is used to elicit business analysis information by reviewing materials related to the business environment?

Document analysis is an effective method for eliciting business analysis information by systematically reviewing existing materials related to the business environment. This approach allows analysts to gather insights from a variety of documents, such as business plans, financial reports, marketing materials, policies, and any previous project documentation.

Through this method, analysts can identify key trends, established processes, and stakeholder concerns without requiring time-consuming interactions with stakeholders directly. The documentation provides valuable context and historical data that can inform current business needs and objectives. By analyzing these materials, analysts can uncover requirements, detect gaps in processes, and validate assumptions that may be critical in shaping future initiatives or projects.

This method contrasts with other techniques, such as focus groups or surveys, which involve direct interaction with stakeholders and may not produce as rich an understanding of existing conditions and requirements as thorough document analysis can. Stakeholder interviews are also valuable but rely heavily on personal interactions rather than the insights that can be drawn from existing documents.