Which analysis finds the inputs necessary to achieve goals such as a desired level of output?

Goal-seeking analysis is a method used to identify the necessary inputs required to achieve a specific goal or desired level of output. This type of analysis works backward from a target outcome to determine what variables need to be adjusted to attain that goal. For example, if a company aims to reach a certain sales target, goal-seeking analysis can help identify how much each variable, such as marketing budget or number of sales calls, must change to meet that target.

In contrast, optimization analysis typically focuses on maximizing or minimizing an objective function, such as profit or cost, under given constraints rather than specifically determining necessary inputs for a predefined goal. An expert system is a software application that mimics human expertise to solve complex problems; it does not specifically address goal attainment as a primary function. A digital dashboard provides a visual representation of data metrics and performance indicators but does not involve calculating or analyzing inputs to reach specific outcomes. Thus, the distinctive focus of goal-seeking analysis clearly aligns with finding necessary inputs for achieving desired results.