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EXAMPLE

A CBA method that’s called The Simplified Two-List Method is presented near the beginning of the CBA training process. This method is near the middle level of complexity in the CBA system. Some CBA methods are more complex than this method, while others are simpler. It’s an excellent method for individuals, families, business organizations, and government agencies. It makes the process visible with a minimum of writing. Therefore, it’s an excellent method to use for simple, two-option decisions during decision meetings.

The following version of this method is for non-money and equal-money decisions (a slightly different version is required for money decisions). As follows, this method requires only two central activities.

The Simplified Two-List Method

List the ADVANTAGES of each alternative.
Without deciding the importance of each individual advantage, simply choose the alternative with the most important set of advantages.

In the following example, the two advantages of Canoe C outweigh the one advantage of Canoe K — according to the stakeholders. Therefore, they selected Canoe C.

Advantages of Canoe C	Advantages of Canoe K
10 Pounds Lighter Moderately Greater Stability	Slightly Smother Finish

Notice that in this method the advantages of the alternatives are displayed, not the attributes. For example, the advantage of Canoe C, in weight, is 10 pounds, not 65 pounds. Because there is a large difference between 10 pounds and 65 pounds, listing the advantage as 65 pounds would be a large mistake. Remember: Decisions must be based on the importance of advantages, not attributes.

How to Simplify Sound Decisionmaking

Listing only the advantages of each alternative is obviously much simpler than listing the advantages and the disadvantages. Nevertheless, for many, their first impression is that CBA is too complex. Apparently, they are confusing unfamiliarity with complexity. CBA simplifies sound decisionmaking as follows:

CBA simplifies decisions that are more complex than those that call for the Simplified Two-List Method by dividing the process into smaller steps. For example, the Two-List Method — which is for difficult two-option decisions — divides the process into three central activities. And the Tabular Method — which is for choosing from more than two options (more than two alternatives) at a time — divides the process into four central activities.
CBA simplifies decisions that are simpler than those that call for the Simplified Two-List Method by taking fewer steps. Examples of simpler methods include the Instant CBA Process, the Recognition-Response Process, and the other CBA methods for very simple decisions. Each of these methods requires only one central activity. And these methods do not require displaying the process, or the rationale, in writing.

CBA can do only its part in simplifying sound decisionmaking. Decisionmakers must do the rest. They must learn, practice, teach, and consistently use sound methods. The more they practice the methods that are presented in the CBA workshops, the simpler these methods will become.