PMI Plus, Minus, Interesting Template - Free Audio Method Questions Decision-Making

How Can the PMI Template (Plus, Minus, Interesting) Technique Refine Your Decision-Making Process?

The PMI (Plus, Minus, Interesting) technique, developed by Edward de Bono, is a simple yet powerful framework for weighing the positives, negatives, and interesting aspects of a decision. By breaking down complex situations into these three categories, you can look at decisions more holistically and avoid being swayed by biases. This technique helps you think critically and evaluate all angles before making a choice.

Whether you're tackling a business decision, personal dilemma, or team project, PMI provides a structured way to analyze the situation and come to a reasoned conclusion. The template below offers a clear method for applying this framework to your decision-making process.

PMI Template with 15 Guiding Questions to evaluate Positives, Negatives

Step	Description	Guiding Questions
Plus – What are the clear benefits of this decision?	In this step, you evaluate all the positive aspects or advantages of the decision or option. List every benefit, no matter how small, to build a case for why this choice could be favorable.	What are the immediate advantages of choosing this option? How will this decision positively impact the organization or project? What long-term benefits can we expect from this choice? How does this align with our strategic goals? In what ways will this option simplify our process or life?
Minus – What are the potential downsides or risks?	This step focuses on identifying the negative consequences or challenges associated with the decision. Consider the drawbacks and what could go wrong if this option is pursued.	What are the immediate costs or drawbacks of this choice? How could this decision negatively impact us in the short or long term? Are there any risks involved that could outweigh the benefits? Could this decision lead to resource or time constraints? How might this choice disrupt current operations or systems?
Interesting – What are the unexpected or thought-provoking implications?	Here, you evaluate the intriguing or neutral aspects that neither fit as a clear positive or negative. These are aspects that may require more thought or could have both benefits and challenges depending on how the decision plays out.	What implications of this choice are unexpected or unique? Could this option open up new opportunities we haven't considered? What outcomes could be both positive and negative depending on context? How might this decision change the competitive landscape? What surprises could arise from this option in the long run?

The PMI Template framework allows for a balanced and comprehensive assessment of any decision. By systematically considering the Plus, Minus, and Interesting implications, you create a full picture that aids in better decision-making. This technique is straightforward yet highly effective in both individual and group settings.

Utilize this template to ensure that your next big decision is made with a clearer understanding of all its possible outcomes.