What aspect does a what-if analysis primarily examine?

A what-if analysis primarily examines the potential outcomes of changing certain variables within a defined scenario. It allows users to adjust specific inputs or parameters and see how these changes impact the results, supporting decision-making by enabling exploration of various possibilities. This technique is particularly valuable in forecasting and modeling because it helps to understand the effects of various factors on results, thereby aiding in planning and strategy formulation.

In practice, businesses may use what-if analysis to assess the financial implications of different sales scenarios, cost structures, or resource allocations. By manipulating the variables, decision-makers can visualize how different strategies might perform and prepare for various future states. This capability is crucial for informed decision-making in dynamic environments where multiple factors influence outcomes.