Final answer:
The evaluation phase in the decision-making process involves analyzing each alternative against the criteria and constraints to ascertain its feasibility and then selecting the most suitable design. Cost/benefit analysis and mathematical models are utilized to support this evaluation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The evaluation phase of the decision-making process involves analyzing each alternative and its relationship to established criteria to determine whether it is viable. This is when potential designs are meticulously reviewed relative to the constraints, such as costs, environmental impact, and energy usage from renewable resources, to ensure that they meet specific requirements. Subsequently, the process involves selecting the most suitable design based on these criteria and constraints. For instance, carrying out a cost/benefit analysis is an integral part of this phase, which can be visualized using a T-shaped chart, where costs are weighed against benefits.
During this phase, mathematical models are often employed to estimate costs for different approaches, allowing a thorough evaluation of the alternatives. This cost evaluation is essential for comparing different options, such as the cost per thousand gallons of water in a desalination project where a solar still might be chosen based on these assessments.
The scrutinization process also incorporates feedback from testing and evaluations, which may prompt further refinement of the design to better align with the objectives and limitations. If a design is found unsuitable during testing, the decision process may revert back to a previous step to select a different concept.