Step 4: Select & Plan
Evaluate solutions objectively and create a detailed implementation plan.
This is where divergent thinking becomes convergent thinking. Step 4 applies objective criteria — weighted scoring matrices, paired comparisons, cost-benefit analysis — to evaluate the ideas generated in Step 3. The best solution is selected on evidence, not opinion. Then a detailed implementation plan is built with RACI accountability, milestones, timelines, and risk mitigation. Every task has an owner. Every deadline is realistic.
Key Questions This Step Answers
- Are our evaluation criteria defined before we start scoring solutions?
- Does every task have exactly one accountable person?
- Is the timeline realistic, or are we committing to deadlines we cannot meet?
- Have we identified the top risks and built mitigation into the plan?
Guiding Questions
- What criteria matter most for evaluating solutions?
- How does each solution score against the criteria?
- Who is Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, Informed for each task?
- What are the key milestones and deadlines?
Tools Used in This Step
Criteria Matrix
Score and rank solutions against weighted criteria
RequiredPaired Comparisons
Systematically compare options in pairs to produce a ranked list
RACI Chart
Assign roles: Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, Informed
Implementation Plan
Timeline, resources, milestones, and risk mitigation
RequiredBalance Sheet
Weigh gains vs. losses for each solution option to support selection decisions
Cost-Benefit Analysis
Compare the financial costs and projected benefits of proposed solutions
Tips
- •Weight criteria before scoring solutions to avoid bias toward a favorite
- •Assign exactly one Accountable person per task in the RACI chart
- •Break implementation into phases — pilot first, then scale
- •Include risk mitigation for the top 3-5 risks in the implementation plan
Best Practices
- ✓Use a weighted criteria matrix: define criteria, assign weights (1-10), score each solution (1-5), multiply and sum
- ✓RACI rules: every task needs exactly one A (Accountable), at least one R (Responsible), C and I are optional
- ✓Build the implementation plan backward from the target date to set realistic milestones
- ✓Identify quick wins (low effort, high impact) to build early momentum
- ✓Document assumptions and constraints alongside the plan so stakeholders understand trade-offs
Facilitation Guide
Run a 2-hour selection and planning workshop. Review the shortlisted ideas from Step 3 (10 min). Define evaluation criteria as a team and assign weights by consensus (20 min). Score each solution independently, then discuss and reconcile scores (30 min). Select the winning solution and document the rationale (10 min). Build the RACI chart — list tasks, assign R/A/C/I for each team member (20 min). Draft the implementation timeline with milestones, owners, and dates (25 min). Close with a risk brainstorm and mitigation plan (15 min).
Completion Criteria
Before moving to the next step, ensure these criteria are met:
- Solution has been selected using objective criteria
- RACI chart defines clear ownership for each task
- Implementation plan has milestones and target dates
Read more in The Never-Ending Quest
Chapter 7 of the PIPS book covers Step 4 in depth — with real-world case studies, facilitator notes, and common pitfalls.
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