Which phase of a waterfall approach defines a program's goals?

The analysis phase of a waterfall approach is crucial as it focuses on defining the program's goals and requirements. During this stage, stakeholders discuss and clarify the objectives, needs, and desired outcomes of the project. By gathering detailed information about what the program should achieve, the analysis phase lays a solid foundation that guides all subsequent phases, such as design, implementation, and testing.

In this phase, team members typically use techniques like interviews, surveys, and document analysis to identify and categorize requirements. This comprehensive understanding of the goals informs the design of the program, ensuring that it aligns with the intended outcomes. Ultimately, a well-defined analysis phase is essential for the successful progression of the project, as it directs the decisions made in later stages and helps prevent misunderstandings or scope creep.