A solution selection matrix is a simple and very helpful tool to keep the problem and its root causes and the many potential practical countermeasures organized into one neat page. There are many ways to visually display the solutions and this approach which I’ve provided is just one way to do it.
In general, a solution selection matrix is ideal for the following:
- You are clear on the problem and can answer “what are we solving for?”
- You have identified the root causes and even validated that they are root causes.
- You have involved the team and other stakeholders in identifying the potential countermeasures or practical solutions.
The video below describes more and shows you how to use this simple tool. This template is flexible and the template shows you the necessary elements for this tool to work. Again, there are many ways to identify and visually organize practical solutions, but this is just one that I hope will be helpful to you.
