text: The definition appears to be industry-specific.  Here are two definitions, with appropriate links:\n\nIn information technology, gap analysis is the study of the differences between two different information systems or applications, often for the purpose of determining how to get from one state to a new state. A gap is sometimes spoken of as "the space between where we are and where we want to be." Gap analysis is undertaken as a means of bridging that space. Among the various methodologies used to perform gap analysis is IDEF, a group of methods used to create a model of a system, analyze the model, create a model of a desired version of the system, and to aid in the transition from one to the other.\n\nor:\n\nGap Analysis is a scientific means for assessing to what extent native animal and plant species are being protected. It can be done at a state, local, regional, or national level.