Tool 183: Solution Matrix

AKA

Solution Selection Matrix

Classification

Evaluating/Selecting (ES)

Tool description

The solution matrix is a method to document the various possible solutions for a particular problem. Solutions are rated and ranked to determine the best choice that has the highest chance of success. Criteria for rating is often feasibility, customer value, and change effectiveness.

Typical application

• To rate and rank all solutions and identify a workable, best choice.

• To analyze proposed solutions on the basis of significant factors affecting the solution.

• To avoid guessing at the best solution.

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

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

links to other tools

before

• Countermeasures Matrix

• Decision Tree Diagram

• Consensus Decision Making

• Factor Analysis

• Different Point of View

after

• Activity Cost Matrix

• Action Plan

• Cost-Benefit Analysis

• Balance Sheet

• Basili Data Collection Method

Step-by-step procedure

• STEP 1 The team facilitator displays all proposed solutions on a whiteboard or flip chart. A matrix format is used. See example Reduce the Current Defects per Unit (DPU) Level.

• STEP 2 Participants brainstorm a set of criteria that is recorded into the solution matrix as shown in this example. Consensus is reached on a rating scale.

• STEP 3 Each proposed solution is rated against the listed criteria. This process continues until all proposed solutions have been rated.

• STEP 4 Next, all rows are totaled by the facilitator and ranked from highest total (rank 1) to lowest total, as shown in this example. The proposed solution ranked 1 is considered the best or preferred solution.

• STEP 5 Finally, the completed solution matrix is dated and presented to the process owner.

Example of tool application

Reduce the Current Defects Per Unit (DPU) Level

Solutions	Change Effectiveness	Implementation Feasibility	Customer Impact	Total	Rank
Train suppliers, ask for Cp data	M	L	H	9	2.5
Implement statistical process control (SPC)	L	H	M	9	2.5
Reduce process cycle time	M	M	L	7	4
Perform Cp studies, benchmark	L	L	L	3	5
Apply robust design principles	H	M	H	13	2
Note high=5, medium=3, low=1 Ranking: Highest total is best choice, rank $1