converge · Decision Making · 30–60 min · 3-15 people · low energy

Team Decision Matrix

The Team Decision Matrix helps teams clarify and agree upon the appropriate decision-making process for different types of decisions, promoting transparency and shared understanding. It ensures that decisions are made at the right level of autonomy and with the appropriate level of team involvement.

When to use Team Decision Matrix

Use this method when a team experiences confusion or conflict about how decisions are being made, especially after implementing delegation or self-management practices. It's helpful for establishing clear expectations and avoiding misunderstandings about decision-making authority.

What it solves

Ambiguity in decision-making processes, leading to conflict and inefficiency.

How to run Team Decision Matrix, step by step

  1. Identify Key Decision Areas (10 min). Brainstorm a list of recurring decisions the team faces (e.g., budget allocation, tool selection, hiring).
  2. Introduce Decision Models (5 min). Explain the different decision-making approaches (Aristocracy, Democracy, Sociocracy, Unanimity, Random).
  3. Individual Card Selection (5 min). Each team member privately selects the decision-making approach they believe is most appropriate for each decision area.
  4. Reveal and Discuss (15 min). On the count of three, everyone reveals their chosen card for a specific decision area. Discuss the differences in opinion and the rationale behind each choice.
  5. Reach Agreement (15 min). Facilitate a discussion to reach a consensus or agreement on the final decision-making approach for each decision area. Document the agreed-upon approach in the Team Decision Matrix.

Materials needed

  • Team Decision Cards (printed or virtual)
  • Whiteboard or virtual whiteboard (Miro, Mural)
  • Markers or virtual pens

Facilitator tips

  • Encourage open and honest communication during the discussion phase.
  • Ensure that all team members have a chance to voice their opinions.
  • Focus on finding solutions that work for the entire team, not just individual preferences.

Common pitfalls

  • Team members may be hesitant to express their true opinions if they fear conflict. Create a safe and supportive environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing their thoughts.
  • The discussion can become bogged down in details. Keep the focus on the overall goals and objectives of the team.

Variations

  • Use a voting system to narrow down the options if the team is struggling to reach a consensus.
  • Assign different decision areas to different team members or subgroups based on their expertise.

Running it online or hybrid

Use a virtual whiteboard like Miro or Mural to display the matrix and allow team members to drag and drop virtual cards representing their preferred decision-making approach.

What it produces

A shared matrix outlining which decision-making approach (e.g., Aristocracy, Democracy, Sociocracy, Unanimity, Random) will be used for specific types of decisions.

Origin

Adapted from Management 3.0 — source

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