Strategy

Decider Vote

The Decider makes the final call on which solution(s) to prototype. They use a super-vote, leveraging team input and strategic judgment to choose the direction.

Duration
10 mins
Group Size
5-8
Category
Strategy
Difficulty
Easy
Participants will:

  • Make a final decision on the prototype direction.

  • Provide strategic leadership to the team.

  • Balance team input with business judgment.

  • Create commitment to the chosen direction.

Participants will:

  • Complete the Decider vote.

  • Make a final decision on the prototype direction.

  • Define a clear path forward.

The Decider is usually the CEO, product owner, or project lead. This person has authority and is accountable for the outcome.

This is the Decider's call. The team has provided input. The Decider must now decide based on team wisdom, strategic factors, risk tolerance, business constraints, and their gut feeling.

If choosing multiple solutions, plan how to prototype them. Options include different team members prototyping different solutions, testing competing solutions, or combining the best elements. It can be tricky to pull off well.

After the vote, everyone commits to the chosen direction, even if it wasn't their favorite.

  1. Context Review (2 minutes): Review the heat map and straw poll results. Consider the sprint questions and long-term goals.

  2. Decision Options (3 minutes): The Decider can:

Pick one solution to prototype.
 Choose 2-3 solutions (this means multiple prototypes).
Combine elements from different sketches.
 Choose a new direction based on discussions.

  1. Decider Places Vote (1 minute): The Decider gets a special large dot (or multiple dots) and places it on the chosen solution(s). Add notes about elements to include.

  2. Explanation (4 minutes): The Decider explains their reasoning, connecting their choice to the sprint questions and goals. Address team concerns and confirm commitment.

Unlock Step-by-Step Instructions

Create a free account to access step-by-step instructions, agendas, and resources for all activities.

For Facilitators

  • Review participant profiles and expectations
  • Prepare all materials and supplies
  • Test technology and room setup

For Participants

  • Complete pre-session survey
  • Review background materials
  • Prepare examples or case studies

Unlock Pre-Work Requirements

Create a free account to access step-by-step instructions, agendas, and resources for all activities.


  • Special Decider dots (distinctive color/size).

  • All previous voting results visible.

  • Sprint questions and goals posted.

  • Marker for notes.

Unlock Materials Required

Create a free account to access step-by-step instructions, agendas, and resources for all activities.

Discussion

0/2000
Loading comments...

Related Exercises

See all exercises

The $100 Test

30 mins

Give each participant $100 (in play money). They distribute it across features, needs, or design priorities. This forces tough trade-offs and reveals ...

Strategy

Brainwriting

30 mins

Silent brainstorming works. Participants write ideas and build on them through rotation. No talking means no interruptions or loud voices. Silence rem...

Strategy

Empathy Mapping

1 hour

An empathy map helps teams deeply understand their users. It's a visual tool for capturing user needs, thoughts, and feelings. The map is divided into...

Strategy