What is the purpose of indicators in analysis?

• A. To replace expert judgment entirely.
• B. To track events, spot trends, validate hypotheses, and warn of unanticipated changes through a preestablished set of observable phenomena.
• C. To archive data for compliance without interpretation.
• D. To forecast weather.

Answer: (B)

Indicators serve as predefined signals you monitor to understand how a system is changing. They are observable phenomena chosen in advance so you can track what happens, spot trends, and test whether your hypotheses about the system hold up against reality. They also provide early warning of unanticipated changes, allowing timely action. This makes indicators a tool to illuminate the current state and guide analysis, rather than a replacement for expert judgment, a mere data archive, or a domain-specific forecast like weather.