Pros and cons list
Compare the benefits and drawbacks of possible actions against a shared goal.
Use a short comparison when you need to make trade-offs visible. This template adds a mitigation column to help examine whether a drawback can be reduced.
Possible actions, a common goal, constraints, and evidence for the expected benefits and drawbacks.
A side-by-side comparison with an explicit reason for choosing an action or collecting more evidence.
How to use it
- State the common goal and constraints.
- Record benefits and drawbacks for each option.
- Add possible mitigations and identify their uncertainties.
- Explain which trade-offs are acceptable and what still needs checking.
Keep its limits in mind
Counting items does not show which option is best. Consider importance, likelihood, and irreversible costs; do not treat suggested mitigations as proven solutions.
Comparing collection and delivery
A fictional shop is comparing pickup and local delivery to make repeat purchases easier. No customer demand or financial outcome is assumed.
On a small screen, scroll across the diagram to read it.
Assessment: Pickup uses an existing resource, but this alone does not establish that customers prefer it.
Next check: Ask customers about collection and delivery, then check whether either trial fits staff capacity.
Next step: Record the evidence behind the final choice and review it after a trial.
Check your work
- Options address the same goal.
- Claims have a stated basis or uncertainty.
- Mitigations remain distinct from confirmed benefits.
- The choice explains the importance of the trade-offs.
Method references
Put the method to work
Use this framework in the English Workspace with early access. Local generation copies clearly labeled fields; you can edit the diagram afterwards.
Open in Workspace