A software-based decision engine implements a comparative or opportunity based decision making methodology. A user selects or provides options and influencing factors. The importance of each influencing factor, and the reason for each factor's importance, is obtained. Each factor for each option is weighted, and any extra effort associated with a particular option is assessed. Resources and on-line links may be provided to assist in weighting factors. The factors may be pre-weighted based on quantifiable information. The options are ranked and displayed in a scorecard format, wherein the importance, reason and weight behind each factor of each option is displayed to the user, providing the user with quantifiable knowledge that he/she has made the best decision based on all available options and associated factors. Steps for developing an action plan to make a chosen option a reality may also be provided.