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Weighted Decision Matrix

cognitive · easy · 30-60 minutes per decision

What is Weighted Decision Matrix?

A structured method for making complex decisions with multiple criteria. Eliminates analysis paralysis by forcing you to define what matters, weight each factor, and score options objectively. Used by engineers at NASA, product managers at Google, and anyone facing a decision with more than 3 variables.

Is there evidence for it?

EVIDENCEstrong

How do you do Weighted Decision Matrix?

  1. 1.List all options (columns) and all criteria that matter for the decision (rows)
  2. 2.Assign a weight (1-5) to each criterion based on importance — not all factors matter equally
  3. 3.Score each option against each criterion on a 1-5 scale independently (don't compare options, evaluate each on its own merits)
  4. 4.Multiply each score by its weight and sum the totals for each option
  5. 5.The highest-scoring option is your rational choice. If it feels wrong, examine which criteria or weights you set incorrectly — your gut is data too

How long does it take?

30-60 minutes per decision.

Is it hard to start?

easy.

Source: Stuart Pugh — Total Design (1991); widely used in engineering and management since the 1960s
decision-making · analysis · prioritization · framework · rationality
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