Decision Matrix Framework
Score multiple options across weighted criteria to make objective comparisons when choosing between 3+ alternatives.
Capture this play inside the Decision Log and make it your own.
What is a decision matrix?
A decision matrix helps you compare multiple options (3+) by scoring each against the criteria that matter to you.
You weight each criterion by importance, score each option, and calculate a total score to see which option wins.
It's especially useful when you have many factors to consider and want to avoid gut-feel decisions.
How to build a decision matrix
List your options: All alternatives you're seriously considering (jobs, cities, products, etc.).
Define criteria: What factors matter? (compensation, growth, commute, culture, etc.)
Assign weights: Rank each criterion's importance on a scale (e.g., 1-10).
Score each option: Rate how well each option performs on each criterion (e.g., 1-5).
Calculate totals: Multiply scores by weights, sum them up, and compare.
Sanity check: Does the highest score match your gut feel? If not, investigate why.
Example: Comparing job offers
You have 3 job offers. Here's how to compare them:
Criteria (weights):
• Compensation (10): How critical is total comp?
• Growth (9): Learning opportunities and career trajectory
• Work-life balance (7): Hours, flexibility, commute
• Culture (6): Team quality, manager, values alignment
• Prestige (4): Brand name, industry reputation
Score each offer (1-5 scale):
• Offer A: Comp(4), Growth(5), Balance(3), Culture(4), Prestige(5) → Weighted total: 132
• Offer B: Comp(5), Growth(4), Balance(5), Culture(4), Prestige(3) → Weighted total: 140
• Offer C: Comp(3), Growth(5), Balance(4), Culture(5), Prestige(4) → Weighted total: 134
Winner: Offer B scores highest because it excels on your top priorities (comp and balance).
When to use a decision matrix
Comparing 3+ options across multiple criteria.
When factors are roughly equal and you need a tiebreaker.
To make your decision process transparent and defensible to others.
When emotions are clouding judgment and you want objectivity.
Limitations to watch for
Garbage in, garbage out: if your weights or scores are wrong, the result will be wrong.
Not all criteria can be quantified (e.g., "how much will I enjoy this?").
Can feel overly mechanical—don't ignore gut feel entirely.
Easy to game by adjusting weights until your preferred option wins.