✅ Why this step shows where your idea stands—and where it still needs work
Not every idea needs a green light. Some need a warning flag—and a plan.
The Scoring Matrix & Flag Tracker is a structured method for capturing and comparing insights during a Viability Sprint. It helps teams visualise how strong their idea is across key viability areas, while also logging critical flags—risks, blockers, or unknowns that could derail delivery. This tool replaces “gut feel” with clarity, alignment, and actionable focus.
📘 What you’ll create
- A visual score matrix across 6–8 key factors
- A set of flags tied to risk, uncertainty, or delivery gaps
- A summary of top opportunities and decision points
- An overview of what needs to be tested, resolved, or clarified
- A snapshot of viability that’s easy to present and revisit
🛠️ Tools and methods
🎯 Scoring Matrix: Evaluate Strength
| Category | Description | Score Range (1–5) |
| User value | How well does this solve a real user problem? | 1 = unclear, 5 = compelling |
| Market fit | Is this aligned with demand and timing? | 1 = weak, 5 = well-positioned |
| Technical feasibility | Can this be built with available tools + skills? | 1 = high risk, 5 = very feasible |
| Cost & complexity | Can this be delivered within scope and budget? | 1 = excessive, 5 = lean + clear |
| Differentiation | Does this stand out or compete effectively? | 1 = generic, 5 = unique & clear |
| Team readiness | Do we have the skills, time, and backing? | 1 = major gaps, 5 = ready-to-go |
🟢 4–5 = strength
🟡 2–3 = acceptable, needs refinement
🔴 1 = risk / blocker
🚩 Flag Tracker: Log Risks and Unknowns
| Area of Concern | Description | Flag Type | Action Needed |
| Technical uncertainty | Unknown battery performance in heat | RED | Test component spec |
| Market access | Unverified user need in EU segment | YELLOW | Run interviews |
| Budget alignment | Tooling cost not yet quoted | YELLOW | Estimate + confirm |
| Compliance risk | CE testing needed for enclosure IP | RED | Add to test plan |
- Keep this list visible throughout the sprint
- Use it to drive post-sprint action planning
⚠️ Watch-outs
- Scoring without discussion—numbers need reasoning
- Skipping or softening flags to “look good”
- Treating the matrix as a go/no-go tool—it’s for insight, not approval
- Failing to assign ownership for next steps on each flag
💡 Tips from the field
“We scored low on market fit—but it sparked the best question of the day: ‘What would make this essential?’ That flag led to a pivot—and a win.”– Innovation Facilitator, DTC Sprint
💡 Don’t fear red flags. They help focus your next move—and build smarter roadmaps.
🔗 Helpful links & resources
- Scoring Matrix Template (Notion + PDF)
- Download: Flag Tracker Sheet
- Article: How to Use Red Flags to Build Better Products
- Follow-on: Define, Project Management
✍️ Quick self-check
🎨 Visual concept (optional)
Illustration: A radar chart with 6 axes showing viability scores; beside it, a flag log board with red/yellow cards linked to action notes. A central summary box reads: “Proceed with flags to resolve.”
Visual shows how the Scoring Matrix & Flag Tracker turn gut feeling into structured clarity—before you commit to next steps.