How do you update and revise a prioritization matrix based on changing needs and feedback?

1 Review the current matrix

The first step to update and revise a prioritization matrix is to review the current version and check if it still aligns with your goals, scope, and requirements. You should also review the data sources, methods, and assumptions that you used to create the matrix and verify their validity, accuracy, and relevance. If you have new or updated information, such as customer feedback, market research, or performance metrics, you should incorporate it into your review process. Reviewing the current matrix will help you identify any gaps, inconsistencies, or errors that need to be fixed or improved.

2 Evaluate the options and criteria

The second step to update and revise a prioritization matrix is to evaluate the options and criteria that you used to rank and compare them. You should ask yourself if the options are still feasible, desirable, and viable, and if the criteria are still relevant, measurable, and weighted appropriately. You should also consider if there are any new or emerging options or criteria that you need to add or remove from the matrix. Evaluating the options and criteria will help you ensure that they reflect the current situation, needs, and expectations of your project or process.

3 Adjust the scores and rankings

The third step to update and revise a prioritization matrix is to adjust the scores and rankings of the options based on the new or updated data, information, and evaluation. You should use a consistent and transparent scoring method, such as numerical ratings, ordinal rankings, or pairwise comparisons, to assign scores to each option for each criterion. You should then multiply the scores by the weights of the criteria and sum them up to get the total scores and rankings of the options. Adjusting the scores and rankings will help you determine the relative importance and priority of the options.

4 Communicate the changes and updates

The fourth and final step to update and revise a prioritization matrix is to communicate the changes and updates to the relevant stakeholders, customers, or users. You should explain the rationale, process, and results of your update and revision, and highlight any significant changes or implications for your project or process. You should also solicit feedback, suggestions, or questions from your audience and address them accordingly. Communicating the changes and updates will help you gain buy-in, support, and alignment from your stakeholders, customers, or users.

5 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?