You need to take an Excel course $($Step $1$ of the decision$-$making process$).$ You may enroll in one within your school or you may take a community class at the local library $($Step $2$ of the decision$-$making process$).$ You've gathered the following information to aid in your decision$-$making process.

Costs$/$Benefits College Course Community Course

Cost $ $3,000$ $ $1,000$

Distance to course $0\mathrm{.}25$ miles $($walking distance$)15$ miles $($driving distance$)$

Timing of course Weekday Weekend

Number of meetings $168$

Qualitative considerations Convenience, quality of instruction Flexibility, brief duration

This information illustrates which step in the decision$-$making process?