Decision-Making Matrix for Family Leadership Teams

AFBG

January 9, 2023

This spreadsheet tool provides clarity about who might have the ultimate say, and which decisions are collaborative among two or more individuals.

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Overview

This tool provides clarity about who might have the ultimate say, which decisions are collaborative among two or more individuals; who needs to be brought into the conversation and when, even if they are not part of the decision; and who needs to be informed. In the matrix, the left-hand column represents departments and initiatives within an organization. These can range from large (strategy or budget decisions) to small (ordering office supplies or writing copy for an ad), depending on the structure of the team and the organization.

Sub-categories can be added as necessary or additional matrixes can be developed per department. The headers of the columns define the level of autonomy or collaboration required for each decision, for example:

  • Is this a joint decision?
  • Does one person have sole authority?
  • Who else needs to be informed (before or after the fact)?

How to use

Fill in individual names in appropriate places in the grid. In the case of a team decision, the team members’ names, or the team’s name, will go in the grid. You can create your own matrix to better represent the departments, decisions, and roles in your family business. A blank version is included for your convenience.

Further reading