AKA | Forced Comparison |
Classification | Decision Making (DM) |
The forced choice technique is a team decision making process in which previously identified options are compared against team-established criteria. Criteria may include implementation time, cost of change, feasibility, effectiveness, and so on. Options are systematically compared with all other options, and a tally mark is assigned to the option considered best. Total marks for each option determine ranking.
To identify a preferred alternative or choice on the basis of rating and ranking criteria.
To search for quick results and choices.
To arrive at a team decision from a list of options.
Select and define problem or opportunity | |
→ | Identify and analyze causes or potential change |
→ | Develop and plan possible solutions or change |
Implement and evaluate solution or change | |
Measure and report solution or change results | |
Recognize and reward team efforts |
Research/statistics | |
Creativity/innovation | |
Engineering | |
3 | Project management |
Manufacturing | |
Marketing/sales | |
2 | Administration/documentation |
Servicing/support | |
Customer/quality metrics | |
1 | Change management |
before
Brainstorming
Consensus decision
Starbursting
Problem selection matrix
Solution matrix
after
Numerical prioritization
Cost-benefit analysis
Resource Requirement Matrix
Factor analysis
What-if analysis
If two options receive the same number of evaluation marks (see this example, options number 3-4), then rank this tie as 5.5 for both to account for rank positions 5-6.
Lowest rank is considered best option.
STEP 1 The facilitator displays a list of previously recorded options for solutions or improvements. See example Reduce Defects per Unit (DPU) Levels.
STEP 2 Next, the facilitator asks participants if any of the options shown need clarification.
STEP 3 The criteria or standard for evaluation of options against each other is discussed and finalized.
STEP 4 The team starts to compare each option against all other options in descending order, for example, option 1 and option 2 as compared to stated criteria. Best option receives a tally mark. Continue with options 1 and 3, etc.
STEP 5 When all options have been compared with option 1, then option 2 is compared with all subsequent options and best options receive a mark. This process continues until all comparisons have been made.
STEP 6 The number of marks are totaled and the highest total is assigned rank 1. Rank 1 is the best option for lowering the DPU level quickly, as shown in this example.