> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://jamiewen00.gitbook.io/tech-lead-handbook/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://jamiewen00.gitbook.io/tech-lead-handbook/engineering/dci-framework.md).

# DCI Framework

## The What

**Decision Maker —** Individual(s) who makes the decision and is accountable for its impact on the business

**Consulted —** Individual(s) accountable for providing guidance based on functional expertise and experience, highlighting issues and raising alternatives to support the Decision Maker

**Informed —** Impacted stakeholder(s) are notified after the decision has been made and who will need to support the execution of the decision

## The How

#### Step 1: The Decision Maker to prepare a document with context, goals, options, driving factors, constraints (people, cost, time, quality, etc)

* Clarify the problem to be solved.
* Share the constraints that facing.
* Quantify each option in a format that has pros & cons for simple scenarios or [decision metrics](https://www.mindtools.com/aksic2i/decision-matrix-analysis) for complex ones.

### Step 2: The Decision Maker to consult with people from various functions.

* Confirm context & goals & constraints
* Captures a variety of opinions and ideas from individuals
* Polish each option with related experts via meeting, slack, document

#### Step 3: The Decision Maker to revisit these options and makes a trade off

* It should be very clear who is making the decision.
* The Decision Maker can be anyone, and it doesn’t or shouldn’t have to be the leader or the manger.
* It helps drive ownership and accountability.

#### Step 4: The Decision Maker to inform the decision to relevant people

* Engage the relevant people.
* A decision needs to be executed eventually.

## Pro Tips

* All these steps can be done via a shared document, meetings, or both. I found async communication + regrouping at to be more effective.
* You want to engage the “right” amount of people — having everybody in a meeting doesn’t help at all. Don’t do that.
* Prevents one person from holding the meeting hostage or allowing others to agree but not contribute.
* Encourages more open thinking vs. driving consensus
* Keep a record.
* Sharing back is equally important.

## :white\_check\_mark: Exceptions

## :red\_circle: Red Flags

## :scroll: Tips

## :hole: Pitfalls