Decision Criteria Matrix
Options scored against agreed criteria
- PhaseSelect
- Group3 to 12 people
- Time45 minutes
- SettingRoom or remote
- ExecutivesYes
What it is
A decision criteria matrix scores each option against criteria the group has agreed, such as value, feasibility, risk, trust cost and data readiness. Scores are kept separate for each criterion and not added into one number, and any criterion can be marked as a veto.
When to use it
When the group is split, or the sponsor needs a record of why one option was chosen.
When to skip it
When one idea clearly leads. Do not score to justify a choice already made.
How to run it
- 10 minTake four or five criteria from Success Criteria and Constraints. Add trust cost.
- 5 minAgree a one to five scale, and which criterion is a veto.
- 20 minScore silently, then compare. Discuss the biggest differences.
- 10 minRecord the choice and the reasons.
About 45 minutes of method time. Add ten to fifteen minutes to open and close the session.
What to watch for
Scoring to support a favourite. Too many criteria. Averaging scores so a serious weakness disappears.
The AI lens
Include trust cost and data readiness as criteria. Keep each criterion separate. An option scoring one on a veto criterion is out, whatever its total.
What you leave with
Options scored, with the reasons for the choice recorded.
An example
Three shortlisted ideas are scored from one to five on six criteria. One idea has the highest total but scores one on data readiness, which is a veto, so it is out.
How it compares
A Decision Criteria Matrix shows reasons and trade-offs. Dot Voting shows preference and is faster.
Related methods
Questions
What is Decision Criteria Matrix?
A decision criteria matrix scores each option against criteria the group has agreed, such as value, feasibility, risk, trust cost and data readiness. Scores are kept separate for each criterion and not added into one number, and any criterion can be marked as a veto.
When should I use Decision Criteria Matrix?
When the group is split, or the sponsor needs a record of why one option was chosen.
How long does Decision Criteria Matrix take and how many people do I need?
Decision Criteria Matrix takes about 45 minutes and suits 3 to 12 people, plus a facilitator. Add ten to fifteen minutes to open and close the session.
How is Decision Criteria Matrix different from other methods?
A Decision Criteria Matrix shows reasons and trade-offs. Dot Voting shows preference and is faster.
Can I run Decision Criteria Matrix remotely or with executives?
Yes. Decision Criteria Matrix works in the room or remotely. Remotely, put the canvas on a shared board in advance and write silently in the board, not in chat. Executives: Yes, works with executives present.