Which type of intelligence involves collecting and analyzing data from publicly available sources to address the needs of a specific project or operation?

Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) is the correct choice because it specifically refers to the practice of collecting and analyzing data from publicly available sources. This includes anything that can be accessed legally, such as news articles, social media, public records, websites, and various databases. OSINT is particularly useful for informing decision-making on specific projects or operations because it provides actionable insights without relying on classified or proprietary information.

The emphasis on publicly available sources is a defining characteristic of OSINT, making it distinct from other types of intelligence. For instance, operational intelligence focuses more on immediate operational needs, while tactical intelligence helps in short-term decision-making, often derived from collected data pertinent to specific activities or engagements. Strategic intelligence encompasses broader, long-term planning considerations, often drawn from a variety of sources beyond just publicly available data. Thus, OSINT fits precisely within the context of utilizing accessible information for targeted analysis aligned with project requirements.