What's so important about understanding the goals of the business?

Everything a business does relate in one way or another to its goals and objectives. If you understand those, then you'll see how the project's objectives support the business. Start by looking at the business in a larger context. What is the company in business to accomplish? What does the company or business unit create or do? What services does it provide? What are the company's business goals for the immediate future? If you can't readily answer these questions, find someone within the business unit who can help point you in the right direction to learn.

Next, take a closer look at the details of the goals the business is trying to reach with the project. Specific goals are often outlined in the project Business Case. Look for clear, measurable objectives for the project that will align it with the business goals. Capturing these in a business case document will help you align the project requirements and solution with the business need.