Before the opening of his sporting goods store, mr. stevens researches the types of sports equipment most likely to sell in his area. the knowledge gained in this research is best classified an example of

Human capital

Explanation:

Human capital is a form of resources that come from the individual skillet / capabilities. This could include both the ability to do physical labor, or the intellectual ability that can be used to support he business (such as the research that conducted by Mr. Stevens)

Generally, human capital is really hard to measure with monetary value. But it always regarded as one of the most important resources that businesses need to have in order to Thrive.

it continues in business