What is one outcome searchers hope to achieve by gathering clues during the investigation phase?

During the investigation phase of a search operation, one critical outcome searchers aim to achieve is to identify the subject's possible whereabouts. Gathering clues serves as a foundation for understanding the situation and context surrounding the missing person or subject. By analyzing various factors, such as last known locations, behaviors, and potential routes they may have taken, searchers can create a more targeted and effective search strategy.

This process is essential for optimizing resources and efforts in the search, providing a more focused approach instead of relying solely on general areas. Understanding where the subject could reasonably be is crucial for both the safety of the searchers and the successful resolution of the case, as it allows teams to deploy their search efforts in the most likely areas, thereby increasing the chances of finding the person quickly and efficiently.