Pugh Chart
An evaluative tool based on consensus decision making. Its value lies not only in the outcomes it produces, but also in the group conversations it engenders through the process of arriving at each assessment. In most of our projects, we have each ideation workshop team use a Pugh chart to evaluate the ideas that emerged in the pre-workshop survey responses.
FAQ
Why make a Pugh Chart?
Pugh Charts are visual communication tools that keep all participants aligned and systematically ensure that all criteria are taken into account when making decisions. Pugh Charts create room for discussion when opinions intersect, and are a steadfast way to avoid logical fallacies and overly emotional opinions.
What is the main goal of a Pugh Chart?
To fairly pick the best idea out of a set of ideas in a systematic way. To align group member opinions on the prioritization of evaluation criteria as well as opinions regarding which ideas are better than others in certain contexts and for what reason.
The main goal of a Pugh Chart is to spark conversation and make sure mental models are aligned. The Pugh Chart is highly process driven, and at the end of the day is much more about the discussions than the hard numbers or scores.
How does a Pugh Chart work?
A Pugh Chart evaluates multiple ideas along a previously determined set of evaluation criteria. Scoring is relative compared to a baseline idea, where the possible scores are a +, -, or 0 for each evaluation criteria for each idea.
Walk me through the protocol of setting up a proper Pugh Chart?
The group must take the time to determine a set of 3 to 5 evaluation criteria along which to evaluate up to 8 ideas. These evaluation criteria will be the most important considerations to take into account when selecting for the “best” idea. Next, in filling out the chart, groups must agree on each score and work together to come to a consensus.
When is a Pugh Chart the most effective tool to use?
When there are multiple options (>3) and multiple evaluation criteria (>3) to take into account when making a difficult decision, making a Pugh Chart matrix is highly effective in organizing thought processes, aligning team members, and creating room for discussion in a systematic, straightforward manner.