Strategic Options Matrix
A strategic options matrix places each option a firm is weighing by how attractive it is and how feasible it is for this firm. Attractive and feasible options are the ones to pursue. Attractive options out of reach call for building capability first, and feasible options of little value are quick wins at best.
The tool opens on 5 growth options for a regional event company. Above the matrix, load porter-scenario-data.csv, pick one of its 40 scenarios and add it as an option: its Industry_Attractiveness becomes the option’s attractiveness and you judge its feasibility. The panel checks the scenario’s mean force score and attractiveness, and shows its recommended strategy exactly as the file gives it.
How it works
Feasibility runs across and attractiveness up, both from 0 to 10, with the lines at 5. Bubble area shows the investment.
In the sample file each force is scored 0 to 10. Mean_Force_Score is the mean of the 5 and Industry_Attractiveness is 10 minus that mean, rounded to a whole number, so strong forces mean a less attractive industry. The tool checks both columns on every scenario. Recommended_Strategy follows no fixed rule in the file, since scenarios with the same attractiveness carry different strategies, so the tool shows it as given and leaves the judgement to you.
FlairMI’s Porter’s Five Forces Analyser scores forces from 1 to 5 and reports attractiveness as 6 minus the mean force. The idea is the same on a different scale.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a strategic options matrix?
A strategic options matrix is a 2 by 2 grid that plots each strategic option by attractiveness and feasibility. It turns a long list of ideas into a short list to pursue, with a reason for every option set aside.
How does Porter's Five Forces feed the matrix?
The five forces describe how attractive an industry is. In the sample file, attractiveness is 10 minus the mean force score, rounded. Load a scenario and the tool adds it to the matrix at that attractiveness, ready for you to judge feasibility.
Why does the tool leave the recommended strategy as it is?
In the sample file the recommended strategy follows no single rule: scenarios with the same attractiveness carry different strategies. The tool reports it as one group's call and leaves the judgement to you.
Are force scores ordinal?
Yes. A force scored 8 is stronger than one scored 4, and the gap between scores is a judgement. The median and the mode suit ordinal data best, and a mean of ordinal scores, as in Mean_Force_Score, is a convention to state openly.
Is the Strategic Options Matrix free?
Yes. It is free, runs in your browser and keeps your work on this device. Export it as PNG, PDF or CSV.