Indecisive – Use 2×2 matrix – A tool to narrow down options and help prioritize your ideas / Product Backlog

The 2×2 Matrix is a decision support technique where the team plots options on a two-by-two matrix.

Each axis represents a decision criterion, such as cost or effort. Each axis is divided into two sections (example: low cost/high cost and easy/difficult).

The matrix is drawn on a whiteboard, then the team plots the options along the axes. This makes it easy to visualize the options that are low cost and easy, and low cost and hard, for example.

The best results happen when the team defines the boundary between the quadrants. For example, if the horizontal axis represents the time it would take to complete a project, the boundary line between the Fast and Slow quadrants might be defined as 4 weeks.

Where is the value for 2×2 matrix in usage?

  • It helps in quickly determining which ideas / thoughts or options should be pursed or rejected or parked for now
  • Obtain a 1st hand overview of ideas that have already have a certain qualification and maturity
  • Carry out prioritization, innovations, identify market opportunities
  • In cases where the problem statement is complex, it helps in breaking down the idea into individual components
  • Use it when you have a decision to make

Use this tool in place of:

  1. Kano Model
  2. Dot Voting

Use this tool in conjunction with:

  • Venn Diagrams for feasibility, economic viability and desirability
  • Dot Voting for prioritization within a quadrant

This tool can be as versatile as a Swiss Army Knife (multiple purpose), It can be used across spectrums ranging from basic technical decisions to solution-oriented business models. Quantification in form a cost / yield chart can be of help, Sponsors are happy to use such a chart as a basis for decision making.

Steps to use 2×2 Matrix

  1. Draw the 2 x 2 matrix and designate your X and Y axis as per your needs and requirements. Use opposite references such as High: Low / Important: Negligible / Cost: Savings and so on..
  2. When evaluating for ideas, focus more on the benefits for the user and the feasibility and use measurable and tangible criteria for evaluation / opportunity analysis
  3. Start with a board classification and question in which quadrant the idea should be placed
  4. Place your current idea in relation to the other already existing ideas
  5. Pay attention to the opinions of the team and try and find consensus
  6. First take the idea and position it for X or Y axis, once a side is decided, then plan for the next axis, this approach would help in identifying the right or more suitable quadrant.
  7. Repeat this process for all the ideas on the table
  8. If there are several ideas in a quadrant, then select the top 3 for further discussions (do not attempt all)
  9. Also check if there is any quadrant which are empty, they represent further opportunities and unfulfilled needs

Key elements to be aware of:

  • Keep ideas as simple as possible – complexity means confusion on the matrix
  • Rewrite or split the idea into several ideas if it helps to clarify the positioning
  • Experiment with different possibilities and adapt the axes to the problem statement and the objectives

This tool can be used for Product Backlog Prioritization, Involve your customers to do the 1st level review and then involve your scrum team to perform the 2nd level of review from a technical stand point

Use different approaches and mix and match to get the best and the optimum results for your product, customer, end users and the team Innovate yourself, to engage the customer and keep your scrum team motivated

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