Decision Matrix

What is a decision matrix?

A decision matrix is also known as a Pugh matrix. A decision matrix evaluates and prioritizes a list of options and is a tool to help make decisions. You must first establish a list of weighted criteria and then evaluate each option against those criteria.​

When should a decision matrix be used?

• When the decision must be made based on several different criteria

• When several options must be narrowed to one choice

• When choosing one option from a long list of choices

• When wanting to take a logical approach to make a decision using evidence shown through a weighted scale.​

*Only the yellow boxes need to be filled out. The rest of the numbers will auto-calculate.

Example:

In this example, we will use a decision matrix to determine whether to continue living in Mission Viejo, CA or move.

Criteria - Input items that have some importance in your decision.

Multiplier - On a scale of 1-10 (or 1-100) how much weight do these criteria carry in your decision. 1 equals low importance and 10 equals the highest importance.

Choices - Input one choice (a city in this example) in each column. Your first choice could be a baseline. Below each choice, provide a score for each criterion. Multiply each score by the weighted multiplier. Add up the sum and get a total score.​

Below you can download the decision matrix I created for free. There is an Apple Numbers version and a Microsoft Excel version.​

Download