Which phase compares operational environment required capabilities (future) vs current and programmed capabilities?

• A. Needs Analysis / FAA
• B. Gaps Analysis / Functional Needs Analysis (FNA)
• C. Solutions Analysis / Functional Solutions Analysis (FSA)
• D. Capstone Concepts

Answer: (B)

This item is about identifying capability gaps by comparing what the future operational environment will require with what is already available or planned. That comparison is precisely what gaps analysis, also known as Functional Needs Analysis (FNA), is for. It pinpoints the shortfalls between future requirements and current/programmed capabilities, creating a clear basis for deciding what to acquire, develop, or adjust.

Why this is the best fit: it directly yields the difference between what is needed in the future and what exists today or is funded, which is the essential input for moving forward with solutions. In contrast, a needs analysis looks at determining what is needed at a high level, not the gap against current assets; solutions analysis comes after gaps are identified to evaluate how to close them; and Capstone Concepts are broader strategic ideas rather than a phase focused on benchmarking future versus current capabilities.