What does the term 'elicitation' refer to in the context of business analysis?

The term 'elicitation' in the context of business analysis refers specifically to the drawing forth or receiving of information from stakeholders. This process is essential for understanding the needs, requirements, and expectations of those involved in a project. It encompasses various techniques and methods that a business analyst employs to extract valuable insights from stakeholders, enabling a clearer picture of business needs and potential solutions.

Elicitation can involve interviews, surveys, focus groups, or other interactive sessions aimed at uncovering information that may not be readily provided. The goal is to create a comprehensive understanding of the stakeholders' views and requirements, which informs the development of effective solutions.

While obtaining feedback from end-users, conducting workshops, or managing timelines may all play roles in the broader context of business analysis, they are not the primary definition of elicitation. Elicitation is specifically focused on the active process of gathering detailed, qualitative data from stakeholders, which lays the groundwork for subsequent analysis and project execution.