Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of price analysis?

Price analysis is a method used to evaluate the reasonableness of a proposed price by comparing it to established benchmarks and market data. It typically involves examining the overall price rather than the individual components that make up a cost.

Evaluating separate detailed cost elements pertains more to cost analysis rather than price analysis. Cost analysis focuses on breaking down costs into their individual components to understand how they contribute to the total price. This level of detail is not a characteristic of price analysis, which seeks broad comparisons rather than in-depth breakdowns.

On the other hand, the other characteristics mentioned—comparison with historical prices, competitive analysis and market data, and assessment of indicators of reasonableness—are indeed critical components of price analysis. They help determine if the offered price is fair based on past data, competitive market conditions, and other relevant benchmarks. These aspects emphasize the evaluative nature of price analysis over the specific breakdown of detailed costs.