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Decision Matrix

A decision matrix scores design ideas against weighted criteria taken from the specification, so the choice of idea is justified, not a favourite.

Also called weighted decision matrix or decision grid.

Intermediate◷ 20–40 minFree · no login

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Which idea actually wins? Test it.

How to use it + an example

How to use it

  1. List the criteria from the design specification and weight the most important.
  2. Score each idea against each criterion.
  3. Total the weighted scores and explain the result — including where the winner is weak.

Example

Three phone-stand ideas scored on stability, cost, ease of making and looks show the folding design wins, but only just on cost.

When to use it: When selecting the idea to develop and justifying that choice (MYP Design Criterion B).

Test: Try it. Find what breaks. Fix it.

Your turn ↓

Decision matrix

Score your options against what matters

Then find out whether the winner is the one you expected.

Options

Two or more things you are genuinely choosing between. Name them properly — “Option A” can’t be recorded as a decision later.

Enter to add

Criteria

What matters in this decision, and how much. More stars = counts for more.

Cost

Durability

Aesthetics

What am I forgetting?

If one of these matters to your decision, add it as a criterion in your own words.

  • What would this cost the user — money, time, or hassle?
  • Who else is affected, and what do they need from it?
  • What happens after a year of use?
  • What could break, wear out, or go wrong first?
  • How hard is it to make with what you actually have?

You need at least two options and one criterion.

Look back. Did the winner surprise you? What does that tell you?

Try next

For teachers: Test stage · 20-40m. Free, no login. One of the 45 design thinking tools on StudioLoom, which also puts them inside lessons so students’ thinking is saved with their project.