Analysis
========

*Analysis* is one of the key concepts in :doc:`Decision
Analysis <DEXiGlosDAnal>`. In contrast with
:doc:`evaluation <DEXiGlosEval>`, which is merely a calculation
directed from inputs (:doc:`option <DEXiGlosOpt>` descriptions) to
outputs (evaluation results), analysis is understood as an active
involvement of :doc:`participants <DEXiGlosPart>` who are trying to
find answers to questions such as:

-  Are option evaluations in accordance with expectations? Are they
   'correct'? If not, why?
-  How do the options compare with each other? Which one is the best and
   why?
-  Can we explain and justify the evaluations? What are the most
   important strong and weak points of individual options?
-  What if something changes: What if we try a new option? What if an
   option becomes unavailable? What if some option characteristics
   change?
-  How sensitive is the evaluation to small changes of the model (such
   as addition or deletion of an attribute, modification of some
   decision rules)?

In other words, analysis is a creative and possibly repetitive
application of :doc:`decision models <DEXiGlosDMod>` aimed at better
understanding of the decision problem, better understanding of options,
their characteristics and consequences, and better justification of the
decision. In general, this involves techniques such as: *what-if*
analysis, *sensitivity* analysis, *stability analysis,* etc.

In :doc:`DEXi <DEXi>`, analyses are mostly carried out on the
:doc:`Evaluation Page <DEXiIntTabEval>`, where you can:

-  Review intermediate and overall results of option evaluation. In
   order to clarify and justify the results, you may focus on
   particularly bad or good evaluations.
-  Change individual option values and immediately see the effects on
   evaluation results.
-  Employ commands on the :doc:`Analysis Menu <DEXiIntMenuAnal>` (or
   corresponding toolbar buttons) to perform the analyses: Plus-minus-1
   analysis, Selective explanation and Comparison of options.

Some analyses can also take place elsewhere:

-  On the :doc:`Options Page <DEXiIntTabOpt>`, you can duplicate an
   option description and prepare it for 'what-if' analysis.
-  On the :doc:`Model Page <DEXiIntTabMod>`, you can change any
   :doc:`model <DEXiGlosMAMod>` component and retry the evaluation by
   opening the :doc:`Evaluation Page <DEXiIntTabEval>`.
-  Various :doc:`charts <DEXiIntTabChart>` and
   :doc:`reports <DEXiIntReport>` may provide further insight into the
   evaluation process and achieved results.

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