Eisenhower Decision Matrix

Created by Sunneva Gaardlykke

Abstract

Prioritising work tasks as an individual or a team is crucial for ensuring success. One popular method for doing this is the Eisenhower Decision Matrix.

Former president of USA, Dwight D. Eisenhower, once said: "What is important is seldom urgent, and what is urgent is seldom important." These are the words behind the concept of the Eisenhower Decision Matrix.

The concept of the Eisenhower Decision Matrix is to prioritise tasks based on their urgency and importance, by categorising them into four quadrants: "Urgent and Important," "Important but Not Urgent," "Urgent but Not Important," and "Not Urgent nor Important." By analysing tasks in this manner, teams and individuals can concentrate their energy on the most important and urgent tasks while delegating or postponing the less important ones.

The Eisenhower Decision Matrix is a useful tool for project managers and team members alike, as it provides a clear framework for determining task priority and making informed decisions about how to allocate time and resources.