When to use it. Before making a decision or updating the corresponding product. You can use a spreadsheet, a document or a notebook; no software licences are needed.
How to use it
- Start with the real decision or question you need to resolve and set a cut-off date.
- Fill in only what can be verified; write NOT VERIFIED when data is missing.
- Separate observed facts, hypotheses and implications, and name a reviewer.
- Keep the original version and record relevant changes when you update it.
Do it yourself
Editable template
Identifier, version and cut-off date:
Decision and recipient:
Intelligence question:
Executive summary (maximum 100 words):
Findings with evidence IDs:
Interpretation and rival hypothesis:
Options, risks and conditional recommendation:
Coverage and limitations:
Owner, review date / trigger:
Company A case · simulation
Fictional caseGuided example · Company A
Company A’s management receives a briefing that proposes a limited pilot conditional on additional tests, not a claim of commercial success.
Educational simulation: fictional information and organisations.
Mistake to avoid
The recommendation is a professional judgement and must be distinguished from the observations that support it.
Final check
- Is it clear which decision or need it serves?
- Can the evidence be located, and is it dated?
- Are uncertainties and limits made explicit?
- Can someone else repeat or review the work?
Notice: entirely fictional case. The tools are for educational purposes; they do not represent an audit or certification.