How to identify the winning idea using the selection matrix?
Choosing among several brilliant ideas can be a challenge, but a selection matrix, inspired by Stewart Pooh in 1981, provides a clear and effective method. The goal is to compare your finalist ideas in relation to the competition, highlighting those features that will appeal to both customers and stakeholders. This benchmark datum technique not only evaluates your ideas, but also pits them against what already exists in the marketplace.
What is the objective of using the selection matrix?
To use this matrix effectively, it is crucial to have a clearly defined objective. That objective should be:
- Specific: What exactly do you want to achieve?
- Rich in detail: The more detail, the easier it will be to adjust the idea to meet those objectives.
The more clarity you have about your purpose, the better you can evaluate which idea aligns with that vision. This first step not only helps focus the selection process, but also sets the stage for more efficient decision making.
What constraints should I consider?
Knowing your constraints is essential to deciding which idea is viable. Consider:
- Financial resources: How much money can you invest?
- Time available: How much time do you have to develop this idea?
- Skills and capabilities: What skills do you have and what skills will you need to acquire?
- Team: How many people are involved and what capabilities do they bring to the table?
The clearer these constraints are, the easier it will be to discard ideas that are impractical, guiding you towards the one that is not only creative, but also feasible.
How to make your selection matrix?
Once you have defined objectives and constraints, the selection matrix becomes a simple pros and cons tool that is a bit reminiscent of the way we made decisions as teenagers. The process involves:
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Competitive review: compare your ideas with what the market already offers. Ask yourself:
- Does it differentiate itself from the competition?
- Does it offer advantages over the competition?
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Idea evaluation: Make a list of your ideas and evaluate them with similar questions. Mark with a "popcorn" the affirmative answers and with an "X" the negative ones.
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Final count: The idea with the most "popcorn" is the winner.
With these steps, you will be able to identify which idea stands out for its innovation and market potential, guiding you to success.
What to do if you still have doubts?
Although this procedure may seem foolproof, there is always a margin of doubt. If after doing all this you are still unsure:
- Consult a third party: inform them about your benchmark datum, your objectives and constraints, and allow that person to help you analyze the information objectively.
This external perspective can not only clear your doubts, but can also offer insights you had not considered.
Start applying this selection matrix to evaluate your ideas. You will see how little by little you feel more confident in your decisions, and above all, closer to finding that idea that bears the hallmark of innovation and success. Always be open to new learning and keep exploring ways to optimize your creative processes.
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