A systems analyst conducts a preliminary investigation to study which of the following?

The preliminary investigation is a critical step in the systems development life cycle, primarily focusing on understanding the systems request. During this phase, a systems analyst assesses the initial project request to determine its feasibility, scope, and potential impact on the organization. This investigation involves gathering information about the business needs that prompted the request and analyzing the existing systems to identify gaps or deficiencies that the proposed solution aims to address.

By concentrating on the systems request, the analyst aims to clarify the objectives of the project, ascertain stakeholder requirements, and ensure that the project aligns with the organization's strategic goals. This foundational work sets the stage for further development and helps in making informed decisions about proceeding with the project or redefining its objectives based on the preliminary findings.

While project deliverables, stakeholder feedback, and market analysis are indeed significant aspects of a project lifecycle, they come into play at different stages, often after the preliminary investigation has established a clear understanding of the systems request and its implications. Therefore, focusing on the systems request at this stage is crucial for guiding the subsequent steps in the development process.