making-product-decisions

Frame the decision by defining what, why, who, and when, then generate at least three options including the status quo. Score each option against weighted criteria in an evaluation matrix and document the chosen option with rationale in a decision record.

Type 1 decisions are irreversible one-way doors requiring slow, careful analysis and senior involvement. Type 2 decisions are reversible two-way doors that should be made quickly and delegated widely, since they can be iterated on later.

Use a Product Decision Record capturing the decision statement, context, options considered with pros and cons, weighted evaluation criteria, dissenting views, success metrics, and a review date. This preserves rationale for future reference and organizational learning.

Use data-driven decisions when metrics are clear, data is sufficient, and the system is well understood. Use data-informed judgment when data is incomplete or the situation is novel, which covers most product decisions.

Common pitfalls include analysis paralysis on reversible decisions, deferring to the highest paid person's opinion, retroactive justification, and judging decisions by outcomes rather than process quality. Avoid binary framing by always considering at least three options.