Use when exploring design options or solving open-ended problems
A structured approach to generating and evaluating ideas for design decisions.
Clearly define what you're trying to solve:
Template:
Goal: [What we're trying to achieve]
Constraints: [Time, resources, compatibility requirements]
Success looks like: [Measurable outcomes]
Stakeholders: [Who is affected]
Generate as many ideas as possible without judgment:
Techniques:
Group and structure the generated ideas:
Evaluate and narrow down options:
Evaluation Matrix:
| Option | Feasibility | Impact | Risk | Effort | Score |
|--------|-------------|--------|------|--------|-------|
| A | High | Medium | Low | Low | 8/10 |
| B | Medium | High | Med | High | 6/10 |
Make a choice and document the rationale:
Decision Record Template:
## Decision: [Title]
### Context
[What situation led to this decision]
### Options Considered
1. [Option A] - [Pros/Cons]
2. [Option B] - [Pros/Cons]
3. [Option C] - [Pros/Cons]
### Decision
[What we decided and why]
### Consequences
[What this decision means going forward]