What is another term that can be assigned to the pre-program analysis and research to determine if a program should be initiated?

A business case justifies the financial and strategic value of a program but is not synonymous with the broader pre-initiation feasibility analysis.

A feasibility study is specifically defined as the preliminary investigation performed before a program begins, evaluating technical, financial, and operational viability to answer whether the program should proceed at all. It is the standard term for the 'should we do this?' analysis phase. All other planning artifacts listed are produced only after the initiation decision has already been made.

A program scope statement defines the boundaries of work to be performed and is created after the program has already been approved and initiated.

A program charter formally authorizes the program and names its manager, and is issued only after feasibility has been confirmed and leadership approves proceeding.