4 Steps to writing an options paper

The purpose of this article is to provide guidelines for writing a paper if issues arise during a project and it is unclear how to proceed.  A Business Analyst can add value by writing and gathering input for an options paper.  It should ideally be a one side of A4 and provide the information required to enable senior stakeholders to make a decision.  It needs to be written in business language and focus on the key points.

The paper should be provided into 4 sections.

1. Summary of the problem
   This is a summary statement to provide an understanding of what the problem is, why is it a problem and the impact of it.
2. Uncovering the options
   Each option needs to be described.  A do nothing option should be included.  Options to be gathered from a variety of stakeholders to ensure all captured.
3. Pros and cons of each option
   Every option should list pros and cons.  The options should be listed in order of the strongest option to the weakest.
4. Recommendations / conclusions
   There should always be a recommendation with the reasons why.

Alternatively the same headings and guidelines can be used with the format of presentation slides or a matrix.

This is such a valuable technique for resolving issues quickly, getting buy in, enables decision making and provides a record of why the decisions were made.

Thoughts? Questions? Please share in the comments.

If you have found this article useful then you might like my book – The Business Analysis Handbook – Techniques and Questions for better Business Outcomes.  The book is available from www.koganpage.com and all major print and e-book retailers.