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INTERVIEW QUESTION:

What is a Pugh Matrix?

Posted by Chris Adams

Article Rating // 187689 Views // 0 Additional Answers & Comments

Categories: Business Analysis, Systems Analysis, Requirements Analysis (BABOK KA)

ANSWER

The Pugh Matrix is a criteria-based decision matrix which uses criteria scoring to determine which of several potential solutions or alternatives should be selected.  The technique gets its name from Stuart Pugh and has become a standard part of Six Sigma methodology.  It is typically used after the development of the VOC (Voice of the Customer) and after the creation of a QFD (Quality Function Design).

The Pugh Matrix may be know by a number of other names, including:

  • Decision matrix/grid
  • Selection matrix/grid
  • Problem matrix
  • Opportunity analysis
  • Criteria rating form
  • Criteria-based matrix

The Pugh Matrix

  • Allows the analyst to organize various criteria (or features) of a solution in a structured way for easy comparison
  • Facilitates a team-based process for disciplined concept generation and selection
  • Allows the analyst to develop a optimal solution which is a hybrid of other strong solutions

Sample Pugh Matrix

What is a Pugh Matrix?

The steps for creating a Pugh Matrix are as follows:

  • Identify relevant user requirement or criteria.  The example shows very generic criteria. A read life example would be more specific.
  • Develop weights for each of the requirements.  This is optional for weighting the scores.  Various weighting strategies can be used.
  • Generate several viable alternatives for a solution.
  • Select one of the alternatives as a baseline. This is often a current state solution.
  • Evaluate each alternative against the baseline scoring it as positive, negative or equal in meeting the criteria.
  • Total the values from each alternative, multiplying each value by its weight if the optional scoring mechanism was used. (See step 2).
  • Combine the best elements of each alternative to create an optimal hybrid solution.

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Chris Adams
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Do your homework prior to the business analysis interview!

Having an idea of the type of questions you might be asked during a business analyst interview will not only give you confidence but it will also help you to formulate your thoughts and to be better prepared to answer the interview questions you might get during the interview for a business analyst position.  Of course, just memorizing a list of business analyst interview questions will not make you a great business analyst but it might just help you get that next job.

 



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