# Decision matrix: packaged, configured and custom software

Project: ____________________  Owner: ____________________  Date: ____________________
Evaluation period: ____________________  Initial scope: ____________________

## 1. Mandatory requirements

Write testable essential requirements. Status per option: met / not met / unverified. Unverified requirements stay open; unmet requirements exclude an option for this scope. A score cannot compensate for a mandatory failure.

| Requirement and test | Packaged | Configured | Custom | Evidence / open question |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| | | | | |
| | | | | |
| | | | | |

## 2. Weighted assessment

Assign weights 1–5 before the demo. Scores: 0 not met; 1 major gaps; 2 partly met; 3 met; 4 demonstrated additional advantage. Blank means unverified, not zero. This is a planning aid, not a scientific measure.

| Criterion | Weight | Packaged | Configured | Custom | Evidence |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Process fit | | | | | |
| Usability | | | | | |
| Entire evaluation period | | | | | |
| Maintenance and changes | | | | | |
| Handover readiness | | | | | |

Multiply weight by score for each fully assessed criterion. Add only matching criteria across options. Check mandatory requirements separately. Sensitivity check: does a small change in weights reverse the result?

## 3. Decision and boundaries

Selected route / scope: ____________________
Rationale and evidence: ____________________
Accepted manual work: ____________________
Open assumptions / owners: ____________________
Trigger for reassessment: ____________________

No prices, products or outcomes are pre-scored. Original SYNQ planning aid, 24 September 2026.