In a gap analysis, what is the primary outcome expected when selecting a COTS package?

The primary outcome expected from a gap analysis when selecting a Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) package is to highlight the need to align with the chosen system's capabilities. This process involves systematically evaluating the requirements of the organization against the features and functionalities offered by the COTS solution. The goal is to identify discrepancies, or gaps, between what the organization needs and what the COTS package can deliver. By understanding these gaps, businesses can make informed decisions about whether to adapt their processes to fit the COTS system, customize the software, or consider alternative solutions that better match their requirements.

This alignment is critical because it ensures that the selected system not only meets current needs but can also support future growth and changes within the organization. It can help in preventing costly oversights that might arise from implementing a system that does not adequately support the business's operational needs.

The other options, while relevant to the broader decision-making process surrounding technology implementation or procurement, do not encapsulate the primary focus of a gap analysis specific to COTS package selection. Identifying opportunities for automation or understanding project timelines may be outcomes of a broader analysis, but they do not specifically address the alignment between organizational needs and software capabilities that is central to gap analysis. Similarly, negotiating better