Templates
Decision log
Decision log template: context, options, decision, arguments, owner, date of revision and consequences.
Decision logs not only preserve the outcome, but also the context in which it was rational: Write down decisions with high re-discussion costs or important assumptions; list options considered, the owner and the review signal so that the journal does not become a graveyard of notes.
What is a decision log and why is it necessary?
Definition
Decision log is a work log that records key product decisions, and it helps you remember what, when and why you chose a path, and it’s transparency for the team, argumentation for the management team, and insurance for the change of participants.
Example of application
The project discussed two approaches to data storage: on-premises and cloud storage, and it was documented in the decision log, which now shows why the second option was chosen, who was against it, and what risks were taken into account, and in a year the team will review the logic and quickly refresh the details.
Who needs it?
So, the product solver, the analyst, the architect, the team leader, the decision log is a proven solution for distributed and fast-growing teams, and one log per product, and the question “why did we do this” gets shorter.
Atlassian: Decision log template
The structure of a good decision log
Mandatory elements
Recommended fields to make the record useful even after a year:
- Date
- Author
- Description of the decision
- Context
- ** Alternatives**
- ** Reasons for choosing**
- ** Risks and limitations**
- ** Agreed with **
A short template for a quick start
| Date | Decision | Context | Alternatives | Reason for Choice | Responsible | Agreed with |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024-06-10 | Cloud Storage | System X | Local Storage | Security, scalability | Ivanov | Petrenko |
Avoid abstract wording. Philip Stanev of Thoughtworks (https://www.thoughtworks.com/en-de/insights/blog/decision-logs-your-most-valuable-project-artifact) emphasizes that a log should read like a business document, not like a note on your knee.
A life-size example
A new payment gateway has been launched.
- Stripe has been chosen from three alternatives.
- The main reason is integration time and support for local maps.
- It is also available from CTO and Head of Payments.
How to manage: checklist for effective use
How often to update
Write down the decision immediately after the agreement and only for the really important issues (architecture, strategic directions, key features).
Who’s in charge?
Log ownership is a product or project manager area, but any entry can be initiated by any team member if the decision has been agreed upon.
Where to store
Any tool available: Google Docs, Confluence, Notion, corporate wiki, the main thing is the same design and full access for the team.
Anti-patterns
- If you don’t log regularly, you lose your meaning.
- Backdating the logs, the team doesn’t believe the records.
- You confuse solutions with task statuses – log is not for task tracking.
Prepared forms and examples
Universal template (copy for your team)
Date:
** Decision:
Context:
** Alternatives:
** Reason for choosing:
Risks and limitations:
Responsible:
** Agreed:
Shortened template for Slack/Telegram
[Date] [Decision] [Reason and Alternative](Responsible, agreed)
Example: 2024-06-01: We’ve switched to new analytics, the former one doesn’t see the cohort, compared to Amplitude. Responsible: Maria, agreed with Peter.
Useful references
- Atlassian: Decision log template
- Thoughtworks: Decision log — valuable artifact
- PM Exercises: Product decision log
- Confluence: How to Use Decision Logs
FAQ
What decisions should be made in the decision log?
All strategic, architectural and product decisions that affect the team or users.
How long does it take to maintain a decision log?
2-5 minutes to write down a single decision, depending on the complexity and maturity of the processes in the team.
Can I use a template for a small startup?
Yes, minimal templates are also relevant for small teams, even if the decisions are made by one person.
When do I revisit old records?
If necessary, for example, before major changes or during a retrospective, Tip: once a quarter to review key decisions.
Which instrument is better to drive?
Where the team is comfortable: Notion, Confluence, Google Docs, corporate wiki.
Who is responsible for relevance?
Usually a product or a project manager, the key is not to let the logging go to the self-organization process.