Sean Tm's List: Bid Process

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What is a Decision Matrix?


Also known as: decision-making matrix, solutions prioritization matrix, cost/benefit analysis matrix, problem/solution matrix, options/criteria matrix,
Use templates and samples provided in your FREE RFP Letters Toolkit to create your own Decision Matrix.

Decision Matrix Definition

A decision matrix allows decision makers to structure, then solve their problem by:

specifying and prioritizing their needs with a list a criteria; then
evaluating, rating, and comparing the different solutions; and
selecting the best matching solution.
As is, a decision matrix is a decision tool used by decision makers as part of their Decision-Support Systems (DSS) toolkit. It's a tool that acquirers use to address requirements that  an acquisition plan template worthy of the name defines for selecting the contractor best matching their needs, as part of the acquisition life cycle.

In the context of procurement, which is the solicitation and selection process enabling the acquisition of goods or services from an external source, the decision matrix, also called scoring matrix, helps determine the winning bid or proposal amid all those sent in response to an invitation to do so that, depending of the best-suited solicitation process, could either be a:

Request for Proposals (RFP),
Invitation for Bids (IFB),
Invitation to Bid (ITB), or
Invitation to Tender (ITT).