How do you compare system designs?

1 Define the purpose and scope

The first step in comparing system designs is to define the purpose and scope of the comparison. What are the goals and objectives of the system? What are the requirements and constraints? What are the expected outcomes and impacts? How broad or narrow is the scope of the comparison? By defining the purpose and scope, you can establish a clear and consistent basis for comparing system designs.

2 Identify the relevant criteria

The next step in comparing system designs is to identify the relevant criteria that will be used to evaluate and rank the alternatives. Criteria are the measures of performance, quality, value, or satisfaction that reflect the purpose and scope of the system. Criteria can be quantitative or qualitative, objective or subjective, absolute or relative, depending on the nature and context of the system. Some common criteria for comparing system designs are functionality, reliability, usability, efficiency, cost, risk, sustainability, and stakeholder satisfaction.

3 Collect and analyze data

The third step in comparing system designs is to collect and analyze data that can provide evidence and information about the performance and quality of each alternative. Data can be obtained from various sources, such as experiments, simulations, surveys, interviews, observations, or literature reviews. Data analysis can involve various methods, such as descriptive statistics, inferential statistics, sensitivity analysis, trade-off analysis, or multicriteria decision analysis. The aim of data collection and analysis is to generate reliable and valid data that can support the comparison and decision making.

4 Compare and contrast the alternatives

The fourth step in comparing system designs is to compare and contrast the alternatives based on the data and criteria. This can be done by using various tools and techniques, such as tables, graphs, charts, matrices, diagrams, or models. The comparison and contrast should highlight the strengths and weaknesses, advantages and disadvantages, similarities and differences, and trade-offs and synergies of each alternative. The comparison and contrast should also consider the uncertainties and assumptions that may affect the results and outcomes.

5 Evaluate and rank the alternatives

The fifth step in comparing system designs is to evaluate and rank the alternatives based on the comparison and contrast. This can be done by using various methods, such as scoring, weighting, rating, ranking, or voting. The evaluation and ranking should reflect the preferences and values of the decision makers and stakeholders, as well as the criteria and data. The evaluation and ranking should also be transparent and rational, and justify the reasons and evidence for the choices.

6 Communicate and document the results

The final step in comparing system designs is to communicate and document the results of the comparison and decision making. This can be done by using various formats and media, such as reports, presentations, posters, or videos. The communication and documentation should be clear and concise, and convey the main findings and recommendations, as well as the limitations and implications. The communication and documentation should also be respectful and responsive, and solicit feedback and suggestions for improvement.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?