What is the purpose of impact analysis?

The purpose of impact analysis is to evaluate the effects of a proposed change on stakeholders or systems. This process is critical in the context of requirements management because when changes to requirements are proposed, it is essential to understand how those changes will influence not just the project but also the individuals and systems involved. It provides insight into potential risks, challenges, and opportunities that may arise as a result of implementing the change. By identifying these effects, stakeholders can make more informed decisions and develop strategies to mitigate negative impacts or leverage positive outcomes.

While assessing costs associated with project changes or monitoring project timelines are important aspects of project management, they don’t capture the full breadth of what impact analysis entails. Similarly, analyzing historical project performances may help in understanding past behaviors but does not provide the proactive insights required for evaluating proposed changes. Impact analysis focuses specifically on understanding the ramifications of changes before they are made, thereby facilitating better decision-making and project outcomes.