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CISA Practice Question: When implementing a commercial off-the-shelf…
When implementing a commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) software package, which of the following is the MOST important activity to ensure the software meets business requirements?
⚠ Common exam trap
It's easy for candidates to confuse vendor demonstrations with functional validation, assuming a demo proves the software fits all requirements, when in reality demos are scripted and omit edge cases that a gap analysis would expose.
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Performing a gap analysis between requirements and software features
Performing a gap analysis is the most important activity because it systematically maps each business requirement against the COTS software's delivered features, identifying any shortfalls that must be addressed through configuration, customization, or process adaptation. Without this structured comparison, the organization risks deploying software that fails to support critical business processes, leading to costly rework or project failure.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Conducting a vendor demonstration
Why it's wrong here
Useful but may not reveal gaps.
- ✗
Developing a project plan with milestones
Why it's wrong here
Important but not the most important for requirements.
- ✓
Performing a gap analysis between requirements and software features
Why this is correct
Directly addresses requirements coverage.
- ✗
Reviewing the software's technical architecture
Why it's wrong here
Focuses on technical fit, not functional.
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