What type of analysis focuses on the organization's mission, goals, and objectives?

Ends analysis is a strategic evaluation approach that centers on an organization's mission, goals, and objectives. This type of analysis examines what the organization aims to achieve and the desired outcomes it is pursuing. By identifying the ends, or results, that an organization desires, stakeholders can assess how effectively current strategies and resources align with their goals. This reflective process is crucial for ensuring that an organization remains focused on its core mission and appropriately allocates resources to achieve those objectives.

In contrast, means analysis would focus on the methods and resources utilized to accomplish tasks rather than the overarching goals themselves. Forecast analysis might involve predicting future trends or circumstances rather than assessing current alignments with the organization's mission. Objectives analysis, while similar, may not encompass the broader scope of mission and goals, focusing instead on specific targets without evaluating their alignment with the overall purpose of the organization. This distinction helps clarify why ends analysis is pertinent to understanding a police department’s strategic direction.