Decisions, Decisions

In the past couple of months through what I have been reading and the people I have been speaking to, I have been introduced to two decision-making techniques, the Tree, and the Matrix. And here I thought the only techniques were a pro and con list or flipping a coin (or for those with kids a game of rock, paper, scissors).

“A decision tree is a decision support tool that uses a tree-like graph or model of decisions and their possible consequences, including chance event outcomes, resource costs, and utility. It is one way to display an algorithm that only contains conditional control statements.” —Medium.com

“A decision matrix is a list of values in rows and columns that allows an analyst to systematically identify, analyze, and rate the performance of relationships between sets of values and information. Elements of a decision matrix show decisions based on certain decision criteria. The matrix is useful for looking at large masses of decision factors and assessing each factor's relative significance.” —Wikipedia

Ok. Now I have got 4 methods I can teach my clients, including flipping a coin. First I must try them out myself. Since I am a visual person (evidenced by my previous career as a graphic designer), both will appeal to me as a useful tool. However, since I already have trouble following the paths on my vast family tree to understand how I am related to a cousin, I think I’ll try the matrix, first. Now the question is what do I need to decide that is worthy of a matrix thought process. Hmmm? My daughter would input deciding if I need a new wardrobe or not (my clothing style is so not “chic” to her). I dress the way I want and like, so this is already out. Sorry, dear! Which brings me back to Hmmm?