In systems analysis, what is a benchmark primarily used for?

A benchmark is primarily used for measuring system performance. In the context of systems analysis, benchmarks provide a standard or point of reference against which the performance of a system can be measured. This involves evaluating various parameters such as speed, efficiency, and reliability under specific conditions.

By using benchmarks, analysts can determine how well a system is functioning compared to predefined standards or previous versions of the system. This is crucial for ensuring that the system meets performance expectations and for identifying areas that may require improvement.

When analysts perform benchmarking, they often compare the results with those from other systems or industry standards, which helps in assessing the relative performance and competitiveness of the system. This information is valuable for making informed decisions about system upgrades, optimizations, and resource allocation.

Other options focus on different aspects of the project, such as estimating costs, defining user needs, or tracking deliverables, which do not capture the essence of performance measurement that benchmarking specifically targets.