Multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) is a structured approach used to evaluate and prioritize different options based on multiple criteria. It helps decision-makers assess the trade-offs between various factors, such as cost, quality, and environmental impact, allowing for a more informed choice. MCDA typically involves defining the criteria, scoring each option against these criteria, and then aggregating the scores to identify the best alternative. This method is widely used in fields like environmental management, healthcare, and urban planning to facilitate complex decision-making processes.