Salesforce Business Analyst Certification Practice Exam

What is the primary objective of requirements gathering in business analysis?

1. A. To draft the final project report as soon as possible.

2. B. To identify and document stakeholder needs and expectations.

3. C. To develop a marketing strategy for the upcoming product.

4. D. To monitor project timelines and deliverables closely.

The correct answer is: B. To identify and document stakeholder needs and expectations.

The primary objective of requirements gathering in business analysis is fundamentally about understanding stakeholder needs and expectations. This involves engaging with various stakeholders—such as clients, users, and subject matter experts—to collect their insights regarding what they need from the project. This stage is crucial as it lays the groundwork for defining clear, actionable requirements that guide the development process and ensure that the final product aligns with what users expect. By thoroughly identifying and documenting these needs, business analysts can create a shared understanding among stakeholders, which helps to prevent misunderstandings and misalignments later in the project. Effective requirements gathering establishes the foundation for successful project planning, implementation, and ultimately, project success, as it directly influences the design and functionality of the final solution. The other options provided do not encapsulate the essential purpose of requirements gathering. Drafting a project report, developing marketing strategies, or monitoring timelines are all more focused on different aspects of project management rather than the foundational aspect of understanding and documenting stakeholder needs.