Which of the following is NOT a step in the intelligence cycle?

The intelligence cycle is a systematic process used to gather, analyze, and disseminate information for decision-making purposes, particularly in military and national security contexts. The primary steps in this cycle typically include planning and direction, collection, processing and exploitation, analysis and production, and dissemination.

The option that refers to "Collective bargaining" does not pertain to any of the established steps in this cycle. Collective bargaining is a concept often associated with labor relations, where negotiations occur between employers and groups of employees or their representatives regarding employment conditions, wages, and other work-related issues. This process is unrelated to the intelligence cycle, which focuses on the management and utilization of information for operational purposes rather than employment negotiations.

The other options, including processing and exploitation, analysis and production, and dissemination and integration, are all integral components of the intelligence cycle. These steps ensure that raw data is transformed into actionable intelligence, which is then shared with those who need it for informed decision-making.