The Decision Matrix template helps teams evaluate multiple options using weighted criteria. This format provides a structured, objective way to make complex decisions, ensuring all factors are considered and the best choice is made based on clear criteria.
This template is essential for teams facing important decisions with multiple options and criteria. It's particularly useful when decisions have significant impact and teams want to ensure they're making the best choice.
Decision-Making Framework
The format evaluates options across key dimensions:
- Option 1, 2, 3: The alternatives being considered
- Criteria: Factors to evaluate (cost, impact, effort, risk, etc.)
- Decision: The chosen option based on evaluation
By scoring each option against each criterion and weighting criteria by importance, teams can make data-driven decisions rather than relying on gut feeling or politics.
How to facilitate
Decision Matrix Best Practices
- Define clear criteria: What factors matter for this decision?
- Weight criteria: Not all criteria are equally important
- Score objectively: Use data and evidence, not opinions
- Involve stakeholders: Get input from those affected by the decision
- Document reasoning: Record why the decision was made
Common Criteria
Typical evaluation criteria include:
- Cost or budget impact
- Time to implement
- Strategic alignment
- Risk level
- User impact
- Technical feasibility
When to use this template
When to Use Decision Matrix
- Technology choices: Selecting tools, frameworks, or platforms
- Architecture decisions: Choosing between technical approaches
- Vendor selection: Evaluating multiple vendors
- Feature prioritization: Deciding which features to build
Example Decision
Teams might use this for:
- Choosing between cloud providers
- Selecting a frontend framework
- Deciding on a third-party service
- Choosing between product features
