Final answer:
At the beginning of a project, an analyst identifies stakeholders and research questions, which entails gathering information from diverse sources, ensuring buy-in, and refining research questions to guide the study.
Step-by-step explanation:
Identifying Stakeholders and Research Questions in Analysis Phase
The phase in which an analyst identifies stakeholders and research questions is generally at the beginning of a research project or a business analysis process. After initially gathering information, knowledge about the subject increases and questions become more focused. This stage involves several important steps:
- Gathering information from various sources including stakeholders, experts, and existing literature.
- Engaging with knowledgeable individuals, such as librarians or industry professionals, for insights or directions.
- Conducting a root cause analysis to understand underlying issues.
- Ensuring buy-in from all parties involved in the research to align understanding and expectations.
- Brainstorming potential research questions, which can be refined over time for clarity and focus.
Being able to articulate concise and accurate research questions is critical as it guides the direction and methodology of the study. These questions must be examined and refined throughout the research process to ensure they remain relevant and aligned with the objectives.