Which process precedes the Analysis phase in the Software Development Lifecycle?

The process that precedes the Analysis phase in the Software Development Lifecycle is the Preliminary Investigation. This initial stage is critical as it lays the groundwork for the project by identifying the need for a new system or changes to an existing one. During the Preliminary Investigation, stakeholders gather requirements, assess the feasibility of the project, and outline the project's scope. This stage ensures that the project is well-defined before moving forward, allowing for a clearer understanding of what the analysis will entail.

The Analysis phase builds upon the insights and findings from the Preliminary Investigation, requiring that the information gathered clearly identifies the requirements and challenges that need to be addressed in the subsequent phases of development. Thus, the careful and systematic approach taken in the Preliminary Investigation is essential for effective planning and execution during the Analysis phase and beyond.