What best describes the purpose of an interview in elicitation?

The purpose of an interview in elicitation is fundamentally about gathering information, which involves asking relevant questions to stakeholders. This technique is vital in understanding the needs, expectations, and insights of those involved or affected by a project. By conducting interviews, a business analyst can draw out valuable qualitative data, clarify requirements, and uncover any assumptions that may not be explicitly stated. This interactive dialogue fosters a deeper understanding of the context and the objectives, ensuring that the requirements are not only clear but are also in alignment with stakeholder needs.

In contrast, distributing reports is more about sharing information rather than obtaining it. Performing market research analysis focuses on studying market trends, consumer behavior, or competitor strategies, which may not directly inform project-specific requirements. Implementing new software systems is an operational task that follows after requirements have been established and validated, representing a later stage in the project lifecycle rather than the initial elicitation phase where interviews are used.