Sophisticated Prioritization Methods

While the Value vs. Cost matrix provides initial guidance, sometimes more structured or sophisticated methods of prioritization are needed, especially when evaluating large, complex or strategic initiatives with multiple factors at play.

Techniques such as the 5 Whys, Weighted Scoring and the Kano Model provide deeper approaches to understanding real value, comparing complex options and understanding the emotional impact of features on customer satisfaction.

These tools help you go beyond intuition and make more informed and strategic prioritization decisions.

The 5 Whys (Delving into Real Value)

The 5 Whys technique is a simple but effective method for exploring the root cause of a problem or, in the context of prioritization, to drill down to the real value behind a request or user story.

It consists of repeatedly asking "Why?" (not necessarily exactly five times) to a statement or requirement, until you get to the fundamental need or ultimate benefit.

For example, when faced with "we need to know the user's location," you ask "Why?" (to see trends), "Why?" (to target marketing), "Why?" (to optimize ROI), revealing the underlying business value.

While it can be perceived as annoying and sometimes reveals multiple paths, it helps ensure that the work is aligned with a meaningful purpose.

Weighted Scoring (Weighted Scoring - similar WSJF)

Weighted Scoring is useful when items (usually large ones such as epics) must be prioritized based on multiple criteria of varying importance. The process involves:

Listing relevant metrics (e.g., customer value, revenue, development cost, risk, strategic alignment).

Assigning a weight or multiplier to each parameter based on its relative importance (e.g., revenue may be worth x2 or x3 if it is critical).

Score each item (epic/story) against each parameter on a defined scale (e.g., 1-5 or 1-10).

Calculate the final weighted score for each item by multiplying its score on each parameter by the corresponding weight and summing the results.

Items with higher weighted scores would have higher priority.

It is a more analytical method but requires care not to become overly complex and always apply common sense in interpreting the results.

Kano Model (Satisfaction vs. Functionality: Must-be, Performance, Attractive, Indifferent, Reverse)

The Kano Model, developed by Noriaki Kano, classifies product features according to their impact on customer satisfaction.

It helps to prioritize by understanding the user's emotional response. It identifies five categories:

Must-be (Must-haves): Basic expected features. Their absence causes dissatisfaction, but their presence does not significantly increase satisfaction.

Performance (Unidimensional): The better they are implemented, the higher the satisfaction (e.g., loading speed).

Attractive (Attractive/Delighters): Unexpected features that generate high satisfaction if