Decision Matrix Builder

A weighted decision matrix with scores, rankings, and a plain-English interpretation that makes complex choices defensible.

Best For

•A startup founder choosing between three CRM vendors uses it to turn a gut-feel debate into a defensible, weighted comparison
•A product manager picking a Q4 roadmap bet uses it to expose which option looks strong overall but is weak on a criterion the team cares most about
•An operations lead deciding between office leases uses it to document why a choice was made when a stakeholder later questions it

Prompt Template

Build a weighted decision matrix to help evaluate these options: [OPTIONS_LIST]. The decision criteria are: [CRITERIA_LIST]. For each criterion, I'll provide a weight (1–5) reflecting its importance: [CRITERIA_WEIGHTS]. Instructions: (1) Create a matrix with options as rows and criteria as columns, (2) Score each option on each criterion from 1–10 based on the following context: [OPTION_CONTEXT], (3) Multiply each score by its criterion weight to get a weighted score, (4) Sum the weighted scores for each option to produce a Total Score, (5) Rank options by Total Score. After the matrix, write a 3–4 sentence interpretation that: identifies the top-ranked option, notes if the result is close (within 10% of each other, suggesting the scores are inconclusive), and flags any criterion where the top-scoring option is significantly weaker than alternatives (a potential hidden risk). Present the matrix as a formatted table. Decision context: [DECISION_CONTEXT].

Pro Tip

Write the criteria weights before you see any scores, otherwise you'll unconsciously tilt them toward whichever option you already prefer.

Example Output

A sample of what this prompt produces once you fill in the placeholders.

Options: Vendor A, Vendor B, Vendor C scored against cost, integration ease, and support quality. Vendor B wins with a total weighted score of 78 versus 74 for Vendor A, a gap under 10%, so the result is close. Vendor B scores notably weaker on support quality (4/10) despite winning overall, which is a hidden risk worth a follow-up call before signing.