Which analysis technique involves studying the current state and desired future state?

Gap analysis is the technique that involves assessing the current state of a system, process, or organization and comparing it with the desired future state. This method is essential in identifying the discrepancies or "gaps" that exist between where an organization currently stands and where it aims to be. By establishing these gaps, stakeholders can determine what needs to change, develop strategies to bridge those gaps, and prioritize actions or projects to achieve the desired outcome.

This analysis plays a crucial role in change management, strategic planning, and performance improvement, as it guides organizations in understanding the necessary steps to reach their goals, optimize processes, and allocate resources effectively. It facilitates a clear roadmap by visualizing both the starting point and the target destination, ensuring that teams remain focused on achieving specific objectives.

In contrast, benchmarking compares organizational processes, performance metrics, and best practices against industry standards or leading companies, while PEST analysis studies external factors such as political, economic, social, and technological influences. Root cause analysis is a problem-solving method used to identify underlying causes of issues rather than focusing on a future state. Therefore, gap analysis is the most relevant technique for addressing the relationship between current and desired states.