Why should a business analyst clarify terminology during elicitation?

Clarifying terminology during elicitation is crucial primarily to prevent miscommunication. In a collaborative environment, stakeholders, team members, and others involved may have different interpretations of terms based on their backgrounds, experiences, or even their understanding of the project context. These discrepancies can lead to misunderstandings that could adversely affect the requirements gathering process and the subsequent success of the project.

By taking the time to ensure that everyone has a common understanding of the terminology being used, the business analyst can facilitate clearer communication. This shared understanding helps in aligning expectations, reducing ambiguity, and ensuring that all participants are on the same page. Ultimately, it helps to create a more cohesive working environment where the focus remains on the project's goals rather than on resolving misunderstandings about the language used.