The Harris profile is a visual form of the decision matrix, and is an easy technique in which criteria and alternatives are considered using positive and negative scores.

Please note that similar rules as described in the decision-matrix technique apply, and criteria can also be weighted.


Executing the Method

  • List Criteria and Ideas

    List all ideas on the horizontal axis, and list all criteria on the vertical axes.

  • Draw Columns

    Draw a four-columned table for each alternative (as shown in the example).

  • Score Alternatives

    Score each alternative on their criteria, using red or green blocks for positive or negative scores. Usually, a criteria can score either two green or red blocks maximum.

  • Count Final Score

    Count all green blocks and subtract with red blocks, which will determine the final score for each alternative. The highest score may be considered the best alternative.