Final answer:
After problem awareness is attained, the Decision Making stage follows, which involves evaluating alternatives and making choices to resolve the issue. This step is a critical part of the public policy process, following the agenda setting phase.
Step-by-step explanation:
After problem awareness is achieved, Decision Making must occur. This stage involves evaluating potential solutions to the identified problem and making choices about what course of action to take. It's during this phase that stakeholders deliberate on the alternatives presented during the agenda setting phase, where a solution is paired with the problem, and ultimately arrive at a decision that attempts to resolve the issue. This is preceded by agenda setting, a stage in the public policy process which includes identification of problems in need of fixing, as well as definition and analysis of the problem where the situation is thoroughly understood and expressed in a problem statement.
Moreover, decision-making does not necessarily lead to an immediate resolution of the problem but sets in motion the policies and actions that aim to address and solve the problems identified. The process includes consultation with stakeholders and involves a certain amount of creativity and insight.