Tool 160: Rating Matrix

AKA

Criteria Rating

Classification

Evaluating/Selecting (ES)

Tool description

The rating matrix tool is used to rate a list of options against a team-established set of necessary criteria or guidelines in order to identify the perceived "best" option. Greater weight can be assigned to a more important criterion using a multiplier factor. The lowest total score on the rating matrix suggests the best option.

Typical application

• To evaluate and rate a number of options available to the team.

• To determine a preferred or perceived best problem solution or process-improvement opportunity.

• To assist a team in reaching consensus.

• To decide on what action the team should take as the next step.

Problem-solving phase

→	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

Typically used by

5	Research/statistics
	Creativity/innovation
	Engineering
4	Project management
	Manufacturing
3	Marketing/sales
	Administration/documentation
	Servicing/support
2	Customer/quality metrics
1	Change management

links to other tools

before

• 6-3-5 Method

• Brainwriting Pool

• Brainstorming

• Data Collection Strategy

• Focus Group

after

• Action Plan

• Run-It-By

• Potential Problem Analysis (PPA)

• Project Planning Log

• Different Point of View

Notes and key points

• Assign ratings of 1–5 in accordance with how well each training method meets the criteria. A rating of 1 (low) is the preferred method; the lowest total score is the overall best training method.

• If a particular criterion is perceived to be of higher importance, a multiplier factor can be applied as shown in the example. The raiting is multiplied by the multiplier factor to give the criterion greater weight, or in other words, a higher rating score.

Step-by-step procedure

• STEP 1 The team determines the criteria and scales to be used for rating all options. See example Overall Best Training Method.

• STEP 2 A rating matrix is constructed with the rating criteria and scales shown on top. Ensure that all numerical scales and translations do not conflict with "lower rating is better" approach.

• STEP 3 The team rates how well each option meets the established criteria. If a particular criterion is suggested to be more important, a multiplier value can be assigned for greater weight as seen in the example.

• STEP 4 After all options have been rated, the scores are added across the matrix to arrive at total scores. The lowest total score is rated as the best option.

• STEP 5 Date the matrix and provide the information to the process owner.

Example of tool application