Lesson 15: Create Decision Trees

When you want to use a rational approach to select the best option from several alternatives, use a decision tree. A decision tree is a support tool that models decisions using a treelike diagram. Each branch of the tree represents an option and its benefits, costs, and likelihood. Organizations use decision trees to identify the strategy or choice that will lead them to a desired goal. Because a decision tree is a graphic, it helps you explore possibilities and track their outcomes. It also creates a simple summary of a complex decision that you can share with other stakeholders. You can create a decision tree by hand or using any basic graphics or drawing package on a computer.