Make Better Decisions

Decisions getting stuck? This simple matrix can help leaders work out when to take their time and when to move forward. Share it with a leader or team who is spending too long discussing decisions and ask them to think of a real decision they are facing. Is it reversible or irreversible? Is it low impact or high impact? Once they’ve placed it on the matrix, ask: “What does this tell you about how much time and discussion this decision needs?” Most decisions can be made quickly, with an opportunity to monitor the outcome and learn as you go. High-impact, irreversible decisions deserve more time to gather perspectives and consider the consequences. Another way to use the matrix is at the start of a team meeting: ask, “Which decisions in the top-right quadrant — high-impact and irreversible — do we need to focus on today?” This helps the team spend its discussion time where it matters most.