Most consultations end with a discussion. A few days later, some of what was said fades, other parts change along the way, and what should have been done isn't. Written decision documentation solves this problem.
What is written decision documentation?
It's not a report, not a presentation, and not an offer. Written decision documentation is a concise, structured document that records: the decision situation, the alternatives examined, the risks considered, and the proposed next steps. This is what you hold in your hand after the consultation.
Why does it matter?
Accuracy. Writing forces thinking. What cannot be written down clearly is not clear. The written form reveals vague formulations and unexamined assumptions.
Communicability. If there are multiple stakeholders – colleagues, investors, managers – the written document creates a common ground. Everyone reads the same thing, not what they remember.
Traceability. If a question arises later about why that decision was made, the document answers it. This is valuable, especially in superior-subordinate or partnership relationships.
Executability. A good decision document also includes the specific next steps. Not just "what we decided" — but also "what happens tomorrow."
What does it look like in practice?
Tatar Strategy Advisory provides written decision documentation for all project-based and longer consultations. This is not bureaucracy but a fundamental prerequisite for quality decision support. If you'd like to learn more about this, read our article on the content of decision support consultation, or our article on well-founded decisions under pressure.
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