Six Sigma Tool Navigator: The Master Guide for Teams

2017-07-07 02:10:07

AKA

Weighted Averages Matrix

Classification

Decision Making (DM)

Tool description

An importance weighting matrix is useful in a decision-making process where a particular product must be chosen on the basis of importance to the problem-solving or improvement-opportunity effort. A relative weight (percentage) is assigned to each characteristic as a multiplier to a product rating. The product with the highest weighted total is chosen as rank (1) importance.

Typical application

To compare and select a product or service on the basis of importance weighting considerations.

To apply importance weighting in the decision-making process.

To identify the best choice.

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

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

links to other tools

before

Multivoting

Starbursting

Matrix Diagram

Information Needs Analysis

Opportunity analysis

after

Prioritization Matrix

Consensus decision

Matrix data analysis

Nominal group technique(NGT)

Cost-benefit analysis

Notes and key points

Sum of all distributed factor weights must equal 1.00 (100%)

Rating scales: 1 to 5, 5 being most supportive. 1 to 10, 10 being most supportive. Also, 1 to 10 provides greater precision.

Ranking: Lowest rank (1) is of highest importance

Step-by-step procedure

STEP 1 The team facilitator lists all products or services to be considered in the decision-making process.

STEP 2 Next, the technique of importance weighting is reviewed with the participants and key product or service-related characteristics identified. See example Videotape Purchase Decision.

STEP 3 Participants reach consensus on the distribution of importance weight factor for all characteristics.

Note: Sum of weight factors must equal 1 (100 percent).

STEP 4 The participants rate all products (or services) using a scale of 1 to 5, 5 being most supportive.

STEP 5 Each product (or service) rating is multiplied by the weight factor and recorded as shown. This process continues until all products have been "weight" calculated as shown in the example.

STEP 6 Finally, the calculated products are summed and ranked. Rank (1) is the selection made.

STEP 7 The matrix is dated and given to the process owner.