When conducting a gap analysis, which is the primary focus?

The primary focus of conducting a gap analysis is assessing performance discrepancies. This process involves evaluating the current state of a business or project against the desired future state to identify gaps in performance. By concentrating on performance discrepancies, organizations can pinpoint areas where outcomes do not meet expectations, leading to better strategic planning and resource allocation.

The assessment highlights what is lacking in current operations and what improvements are necessary, whether they relate to processes, services, technology, or skills. Consequently, addressing these gaps allows businesses to align their objectives and initiatives effectively.

The other options, while relevant in specific contexts, do not encapsulate the core purpose of gap analysis itself. Identifying system features may contribute to understanding the current capabilities, but it lacks the broader focus on performance comparison. Mapping the user journey is essential for understanding customer experiences but does not directly address the performance discrepancies present in processes or outcomes. Evaluating budget allocations is certainly important for financial oversight but is generally not the primary intent of a gap analysis, which is more about assessing operational effectiveness and performance metrics.