Choosing by Advantages (CBA)

Abstract

Decision making processes are important due to its significant impacts on the actual outcome. Decisions can be affected by experiences, arguments, biases and time restrictions that all can lead to unintended results. Using a sound decision process is essential to achieving sound results .

Choosing by Advantages (CBA) is a decision-making system that include a wide variety of decision-making methods, definitions, principles and models. The purpose of the CBA system is simplify complex decision making through differentiate alternatives and understand the importance of those [2]. It hinders double-counting through focusing on decisions based on the importance of advantages, not advantages and disadvantages [4] The CBA system supports visual and transparent decision making with an collaborate environment that acknowledges that decisions are essentially subjective. Values and culture of Lean/IPD project management are aligned with an emphasis on project's value for stakeholders and the use of data.

Virtually, the CBA system can be applied in all decision making processes, simple and more complex situations [2]. Although, the CBA system demands use of more resources in comparison with for example experienced based decisions, and is used when a need for sound methods due to the importance of the decisions. One example of program management where CBA can be used is in making an analyze of a project's Business Case. This analysis will result in rejection or approval of the Business Case in relation to the outputs, outcome and benefits of the project []. One other example of a project management process with the use of CBA is to find out which windows one should choose in a primary-school construction project. The designer of the CBA system, Jim Suhr, describes CBA as a process for making sound decisions for both simple and complex situations in project management [6].

This article will look into the CBA concept, purpose, current state, limitations and a concrete example on application of CBA.