# Decision Document Template

> **Instructions:** Copy this template for new decisions. Replace all placeholder text with actual content. Delete this instruction block when creating a real decision document.

## Context and Background

Describe the situation that led to this decision. Include:
- What circumstances created the need for this decision?
- What is the current state?
- Any relevant historical context or previous decisions?

## Problem Statement

Clearly articulate the problem being solved:
- What specific issue are we addressing?
- Who is affected by this problem?
- What happens if we don't make a decision?
- Any constraints or requirements that must be considered?

## Decision

**We have decided to [clear, actionable decision statement].**

Provide additional details about the decision:
- Specific implementation details
- Timeline for implementation
- Success criteria
- Any conditions or assumptions

## Alternatives Considered

Document the options that were evaluated:

### Option 1: [Name]
- **Description:** Brief explanation of this approach
- **Pros:** What are the advantages?
- **Cons:** What are the drawbacks?
- **Cost/Effort:** Implementation complexity and resource requirements

### Option 2: [Name]
- **Description:** Brief explanation of this approach
- **Pros:** What are the advantages?
- **Cons:** What are the drawbacks?
- **Cost/Effort:** Implementation complexity and resource requirements

### Option 3: Do Nothing
- **Description:** Maintain the status quo
- **Pros:** No implementation cost
- **Cons:** Problems remain unresolved
- **Cost/Effort:** Ongoing maintenance burden

## Rationale

Explain why the chosen option was selected:
- What factors were most important in the decision?
- How does this align with organizational goals/principles?
- What assumptions are we making?
- Risk assessment and mitigation strategies

## Consequences

### Positive Consequences
- What benefits do we expect?
- How will success be measured?
- What opportunities does this create?

### Negative Consequences
- What trade-offs are we accepting?
- What new risks are introduced?
- What technical debt might be created?

### Neutral Consequences
- What changes but neither helps nor hurts?
- What operational changes are required?

## Implementation Plan

If applicable, provide a high-level implementation approach:
- Key milestones and timeline
- Required resources
- Dependencies
- Risk mitigation strategies
- Rollback plan

## Follow-up Actions

- [ ] Action item 1 (Owner: Name, Due: Date)
- [ ] Action item 2 (Owner: Name, Due: Date)
- [ ] Review decision effectiveness (Date)


*This document follows the [Decision Document Template](template.md).*