Harlow Model is a structured decision framework that helps teams evaluate options against clear criteria. It combines weighted scoring, evidence checks, and stakeholder alignment to reduce bias and clarify tradeoffs.
Use this approach when multiple design, product, or policy choices compete and you need a repeatable method to compare impact, feasibility, and risk.
| Dimension | Description | Measurement Method | Typical Threshold |
|---|---|---|---|
| Strategic Fit | Alignment with long-term goals and market position | Scorecard against strategic pillars | Minimum 80/100 |
| Feasibility | Technical, operational, and resource capacity | Readiness assessment and dependency map | Risk rating medium or lower |
| Value Impact | Expected outcomes for users, revenue, and cost | Quantified forecast and sensitivity analysis | Positive NPV in base case |
| Risk & Compliance | Legal, regulatory, security, and reputational exposure | Checklist and mitigation plan review | Acceptable with mitigations |
Evaluating Options with Weighted Criteria
In this phase, teams define criteria, assign weights, and score each option. Harlow Model emphasizes transparency so stakeholders can see how priorities drive the final ranking.
Steps for Weighted Scoring
- List decision criteria and agree on relative importance
- Assign weights that reflect strategic emphasis
- Score each option against every criterion
- Calculate weighted totals and review outliers
Evidence Checks and Assumptions Testing
Harlow Model requires teams to validate key assumptions before committing resources. Evidence checks challenge biases and highlight where data is missing or uncertain.
Evidence Review Practices
- Gather quantitative and qualitative data sources
- Run pilot tests or prototypes where feasible
- Map assumptions and define falsification conditions
- Document confidence levels for each major claim
Stakeholder Alignment and Communication
Clear communication keeps decision rationale consistent across teams. Harlow Model encourages a shared narrative that explains tradeoffs and addresses concerns early.
Alignment Activities
- Run decision walkthroughs with key stakeholders
- Publish criteria, scores, and rationale in a decision record
- Set expectations for feedback windows and escalation paths
- Plan follow-ups to track commitments and learning
Implementation Planning and Roadmapping
Once a choice is made, Harlow Model guides teams from approval to execution. A structured roadmap clarifies milestones, owners, and dependencies.
Implementation Checklist
- Define scope, success metrics, and owner for each workstream
- Break down work into phases with clear gates
- Identify risks, dependencies, and contingency actions
- Establish review cadence and change control process
Getting Started with Harlow Model in Practice
- Clarify the decision context and desired outcomes
- Co-create criteria and assign transparent weights
- Score options rigorously and test key assumptions
- Communicate results with supporting evidence and a clear roadmap
FAQ
Reader questions
What types of decisions is Harlow Model best suited for?
Harlow Model works well for portfolio choices, product roadmap decisions, vendor selection, and major investments where multiple criteria and stakeholders must be balanced.
How do you choose the right criteria and weights?
Start with strategic objectives, run a brief workshop to surface criteria, and use a simple weighting method such as pairwise comparison to reflect relative importance.
Can Harlow Model be used in fast-paced or agile environments?
Yes, teams can compress the process into lightweight sprints by limiting criteria, using quick scoring sessions, and validating evidence with short experiments.
How do you handle conflicting stakeholder preferences during scoring?
Document disagreements explicitly, revisit weights, and use sensitivity analysis to show how outcomes shift under different assumptions.