Decision · beginner · 30 min

Impact Effort Matrix

This method helps prioritize potential improvements to the service blueprint based on their impact and effort. Participants will plot each improvement idea on a 2x2 matrix to identify quick wins and major projects.

What participants gain

  • Participants will be able to prioritize service blueprint improvements based on impact and effort.
  • Participants will be able to identify quick wins and major projects.
  • Participants will be able to make informed decisions about resource allocation.
  • Participants will be able to communicate the rationale for prioritization decisions.

Materials needed

  • Printed copies of the Impact Effort Matrix (A3 size)
  • Sticky notes (different colors)
  • Markers
  • Whiteboard or flip chart
  • Pens/Pencils

How to run Impact Effort Matrix, step by step

  1. 1. Introduce the purpose of the Impact Effort Matrix and the objectives of the session (5 minutes).
  2. 2. Explain the criteria for impact and effort (5 minutes).
  3. 3. Brainstorm a list of potential service blueprint improvements (10 minutes).
  4. 4. Plot each improvement on the Impact Effort Matrix based on its impact and effort (10 minutes).
  5. 5. Discuss the results and identify quick wins and major projects (10 minutes).

Facilitator tips

  • Clearly define the criteria for impact and effort to ensure consistent scoring.
  • Encourage participants to consider both short-term and long-term impact.
  • Focus the discussion on identifying the most promising opportunities for improvement.

Common challenges

  • Participants may disagree on the impact or effort of different improvements - Facilitate a discussion to reach a consensus.
  • The matrix may become overcrowded - Limit the number of improvements being evaluated or use smaller sticky notes.
  • Participants may focus on easy wins rather than high-impact opportunities - Encourage a balanced approach.

Running it virtually

Use a digital whiteboard platform to create the Impact Effort Matrix. Participants can drag and drop virtual sticky notes representing improvement ideas onto the matrix.

Expected results

A prioritized list of service blueprint improvements based on their impact and effort. A clear understanding of which improvements represent quick wins and which require more significant investment.

Build a session around Impact Effort Matrix

METODIC drops Impact Effort Matrix into a complete session plan with timing, materials, worksheets, and a facilitator guide — for any workshop, meeting, or team session.

Try METODIC free