Weighted Decision Matrix
A quantitative tool for evaluating options by scoring them against weighted criteria.
Also known as: Pugh matrix, Decision matrix, Prioritization matrix, Criteria matrix, Grid analysis
Category: Techniques
Tags: decision-making, frameworks, techniques, analysis, prioritization
Explanation
A weighted decision matrix (also called a Pugh matrix or prioritization matrix) provides a structured, objective approach to comparing multiple options. You list your options as rows, your criteria as columns, assign weights to each criterion based on importance (e.g., 1-5 or percentages), then score each option against each criterion. Multiplying scores by weights and summing gives you a total score for each option. This method forces you to explicitly identify what matters most, reduces emotional bias, and creates transparency in decision-making. It's particularly useful for: choosing between job offers, selecting vendors or tools, prioritizing features, or any multi-criteria decision. The process of building the matrix often provides as much value as the final scores - it clarifies your thinking about what truly matters. However, beware of false precision; the numbers help structure thinking but shouldn't override intuition completely.
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