Prioritization Matrix for Decision Making & Problem Solving
Prioritization matrices provide a mechanism for ranking the relative importance of ideas or issues that assists in deciding what to do after key actions or Critical-To-Quality (CTQ) characteristics have been identified but their relative importance is not known with certainty.
It is a visual diagram used to compare multiple (at least two) sets of data using some sets of criteria. The matrix consists of a set of criteria options and the alternatives under consideration.
Prioritization matrices are especially useful if problem-solving resources, such as people, time or money, are limited, or if the identified problem-solving actions or CTQs are strongly interrelated.
When to Use the Prioritization Matrix
The prioritization matrix should be used when
- You cannot do everything at once,
- You are uncertain about the best use of your resources or energy or
- You are looking toward specific improvement goals.
Steps to Implementing the Prioritization Matrix
The following are some steps for implementing prioritization matrix for your processes:
- Step 1: Agree on the ultimate objective.
- Step 2: List all criteria needed to meet the goal.
- Step 3: Compare relative importance of criterion.
- Step 4: Evaluate your options against weighted criteria.
- Step 5: Evaluate criteria with reference to other criterion.
- Step 6: Compare possible choices for remaining criteria.
- Step 7: Merge the relative ability of a possible choice to deliver a desired criterion with the relative weighting of that criterion.
Download a FREE Prioritization Matrix Template Below...
About the Author
Adebayo is a thought leader in continuous process improvement and manufacturing excellence. He is a Certified Six Sigma Master Black Belt (CSSMBB) Professional and Management Systems Lead Auditor (ISO 9001, 45001, ISO 22000/FSSC 22000 etc.) with strong experience leading various continuous improvement initiative in top manufacturing organizations.
You can reach him here.
