Which of the following best describes the relationship between systems analysis and requirements analysis?

The relationship between systems analysis and requirements analysis is best captured by the idea that systems analysis informs requirements analysis to enhance decision-making. In many software development processes, systems analysis involves examining the current system's functionality, processes, and limitations to understand how it operates within its context. This knowledge is crucial for conducting requirements analysis, where specific needs, functionalities, and constraints of the new or improved system are identified based on the insights gained during systems analysis.

By understanding the workings and deficiencies of the existing system, analysts can better articulate the requirements for a new system, ensuring that it addresses current challenges and aligns with user needs. This iterative process supports informed decision-making, allowing developers and stakeholders to prioritize features and develop a system that effectively meets business goals.

The other options do not accurately reflect the interdependent nature of these analysis phases. They are not completely independent processes, as they rely on each other significantly. Furthermore, while they are components of the overall system development lifecycle, they do not solely belong to system design, nor do they exclusively focus on hardware specifications, as both analyses can encompass software and functional requirements as well.