loapi/docs/decisions/template.md

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.