Simplifying Prioritization: A Guide to Focusing on What Matters

The Problem with Complex Prioritization Techniques

Prioritization – the process of deciding what needs to be done first – can be a daunting task. It’s a common problem that can drain energy and kill motivation. But what if there was a way to simplify prioritization and make it more manageable?

Many prioritization techniques are overly technical and neglect the heart of prioritization: collaboration. These methods often lead to circular discussions, mediocre outcomes, and a lack of buy-in from team members. As a result, teams struggle with high context-switching costs, demotivation, and low morale.

Introducing the Impact Effort Matrix

The impact effort matrix is a simple, yet powerful tool that can transform the prioritization process. It consists of two axes: impact and effort. By evaluating initiatives based on their potential impact and required effort, teams can quickly categorize opportunities and focus on what matters most.

|  | Low Effort | High Effort |
| --- | --- | --- |
| **Low Impact** | Time-wasters | Distractions |
| **High Impact** | Low-hanging fruit | Bets |

The Quadrants of the Impact Effort Matrix

• Time-wasters: High effort, low impact initiatives that should be avoided.
• Distrations: Easy to implement, but low impact initiatives that create distractions rather than value.
• Bets: High effort, high impact initiatives that require significant investment.
• Low-hanging fruit: High impact, low effort initiatives that create value quickly.

How to Use the Impact Effort Matrix

1. Define a goal: Set a clear target to evaluate initiatives against.
2. Group items: Divide a large backlog into manageable sets.
3. Discard groups: Eliminate initiatives that don’t align with the goal.
4. Place them into the matrix: Engage in a team discussion to evaluate initiatives based on impact and effort.
5. Agree on a sequence: Determine the order of execution for initiatives.
6. Assign responsibility: Allocate tasks across teams.

Prioritization Made Simple

By embracing simplicity and using the impact effort matrix, teams can make prioritization more manageable. Remember to beware of commitment escalation traps and continuously iterate and adjust prioritization based on new findings. Effective prioritization enables teams to concentrate on what truly matters, leading to impactful products and hidden opportunities.