The first step in the evaluation of a systems request is to make an initial determination of: A. costs. B. benefits. C. feasibility.  D. desirability.

To determine the first step in evaluating a systems request, we must consider the nature of the evaluation process in system development.

1. Understanding the Evaluation Process: In the systems development life cycle, evaluating a request begins with assessing whether the proposed system can be realistically implemented within the organizational context.

2. Analysis of Options:

   • A. Costs: While important, assessing costs typically comes after determining the feasibility.
   • B. Benefits: Similar to costs, understanding benefits is crucial but is secondary to establishing if the system can be implemented.
   • C. Feasibility: This involves evaluating whether the system can be developed and implemented within the constraints of resources, technology, and time. Feasibility is often considered the preliminary step.
   • D. Desirability: This might relate to how much stakeholders want the system, but it is less technical and crucial as a first step compared to feasibility.

3. Conclusion: The initial determination in evaluating a system request is primarily concerned with whether the project is feasible within existing constraints.

Final Answer

C. feasibility.