Gathering and analyzing data is part of this phase.Multiple ChoicePreliminary investigationSystems analysisSystems designSystems implementation

The correct answer to the question is Systems analysis.

Explanation:

In the context of systems development and project management, the term "systems analysis" refers to the phase where gathering and analyzing data are crucial activities. During this phase, analysts assess and define the requirements of a system by collecting data through various methods such as interviews, surveys, and existing documentation reviews. This analysis helps in identifying the needs of stakeholders and understanding the problem that the system aims to solve.

1. Preliminary investigation: This is the initial phase where a basic understanding of the project is established. It does not delve deeply into data analysis.

2. Systems analysis: This phase focuses on detailed data gathering, requirements identification, and analysis of these requirements to facilitate better decision-making for the system’s design.

3. Systems design: Following the analysis, this phase focuses on outlining how the system will meet the identified requirements but does not involve data gathering fundamentally.

4. Systems implementation: In this phase, the designed system is built and deployed, signifying the culmination of all prior planning and design efforts; it focuses more on executing the plans created in prior phases rather than analyzing new data.

Therefore, systems analysis is the vital phase where data gathering and analysis are primarily conducted to ensure the success of the subsequent design and implementation phases.