Criteria Matrix

What is Criteria Matrix?

A Criteria Matrix (also called a Decision Matrix or Weighted Scoring Model) is a structured tool for evaluating multiple solutions against defined criteria. Each criterion gets a weight reflecting its importance (1-10), and each solution gets a score against each criterion (1-5). Multiply weights by scores, sum the totals, and the highest-scoring solution wins. It removes gut-feel bias from decision-making.

When to Use It

• •In Step 4 (Select & Plan) to choose the best solution from the brainstormed list
• •When there are 3-8 viable solutions and the team disagrees on which is best
• •When the decision involves trade-offs (cost vs. speed vs. quality) that need to be made explicit
• •When leadership needs transparent reasoning behind the recommendation

How to Use It: Step by Step

1. 1

   Define criteria

   List the factors that matter: cost, time to implement, impact on the problem, feasibility, risk, maintainability. Get team consensus on the list.

2. 2

   Assign weights

   Rate each criterion's importance from 1 (low) to 10 (critical). Assign weights before scoring solutions to prevent bias toward a pre-selected favorite.

3. 3

   Score each solution

   Have each team member independently score every solution against every criterion (1 = poor, 5 = excellent). Then discuss and reconcile scores as a group.

4. 4

   Calculate and rank

   Multiply each score by its criterion weight. Sum the weighted scores for each solution. The highest total is the recommended choice.

Pro Tips

• ✓Always set weights before revealing the solutions — it prevents reverse-engineering scores to justify a favorite
• ✓Have individuals score independently first, then discuss — this surfaces genuine disagreements
• ✓If two solutions score within 5% of each other, they are effectively tied — pick the one with lower risk
• ✓Document the criteria and weights for future projects — they often transfer to similar decisions

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).

Other Tools in Step 4