Foundations
5 focused guides for this part of the decision process.
Browse foundations →Structured choices, clearer tradeoffs
Decision models you can actually use
Compare options involving cost, risk, time, performance and uncertainty with practical guides, worked reasoning and free tools that run in your browser.
Option A: lowest upfront cost72
Option B: strongest reliability86
Option C: most flexible79
Sensitivity checkB remains first
Start with the question
Use the simplest model that fits the decision
A useful model reveals what drives the result. Begin with a clear question, realistic alternatives and a consistent time horizon before choosing a formula.
Comparison Models
2 focused guides for this part of the decision process.
Browse comparison models →Financial Models
6 focused guides for this part of the decision process.
Browse financial models →Risk and Uncertainty
6 focused guides for this part of the decision process.
Browse risk and uncertainty →Economic Reasoning
2 focused guides for this part of the decision process.
Browse economic reasoning →Tradeoffs
5 focused guides for this part of the decision process.
Browse tradeoffs →Strategic Choices
4 focused guides for this part of the decision process.
Browse strategic choices →Decision Quality
6 focused guides for this part of the decision process.
Browse decision quality →Core decision guides
Start with these widely used frameworks, then test the assumptions that matter.
Weighted Decision Matrix
Build a weighted decision matrix, score options consistently and test whether small weight changes reverse the ranking.
Total Cost of Ownership (TCO)
Estimate the full cost of acquiring, operating, supporting and retiring an asset or service over a common period.
Expected Value
Calculate probability-weighted outcomes and understand why expected value is not a guaranteed result.
Scenario Analysis
Test how each option performs under coherent downside, base and upside futures.
Buy Versus Build
Compare purchased solutions with internal development using fit, total cost, time, capability, control and exit risk.
How to Write a Decision Record
Document context, alternatives, assumptions, rationale, risks, owners and review triggers in a concise record.
Build a comparison, not just a score
Use the weighted matrix, TCO, expected-value, break-even and scenario tools. Entries stay in your browser.