Decision Matrix — Weighted Options Scorecard

Chapter 11: Decision Making Under Pressure  |  Mastering Problem Solving Toolkit

Use this matrix when you have multiple good options and need an objective way to choose. It removes emotion from the decision by scoring each option against weighted criteria.

 
 
 
How to use:
1. List your options (up to 5) across the top.
2. List your criteria (up to 6) down the left. Assign each a weight (1–5, where 5 = most important). Weights should reflect what matters most to stakeholders.
3. Score each option on each criterion (1–5, where 5 = best).
4. Multiply score × weight to get the weighted score.
5. Add up weighted scores. Highest total = recommended option.

Scoring guide: 1 = Very Poor   2 = Poor   3 = Acceptable   4 = Good   5 = Excellent

Step 1 — List Your Options

 
 
 
 
 

Step 2 — Score the Matrix

Criterion Weight (1–5) Option A
Score / Wtd
Option B
Score / Wtd
Option C
Score / Wtd
Option D
Score / Wtd
Option E
Score / Wtd
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TOTAL WEIGHTED SCORE