SIGNATURE METHOD

Leave a TRACE
for every decision.

TRACE is a compact operating method for choices that cross teams. It creates a visible trail from the question to the evidence, action, and review.

Build a TRACE brief →See worked examples →
T01

Target the decision

Write the choice as a question that can be answered. Name the outcome, boundary, and decision date.

Output:

One decision question and one desired outcome.

R02

Record reality

Separate observed evidence from assumptions and unknowns. Include the source, period, and confidence.

Output:

A short evidence record with gaps made visible.

A03

Assess alternatives

Compare viable options, including the current approach. State the tradeoff and reversibility of each.

Output:

Two or more real alternatives with explicit tradeoffs.

C04

Commit the action

Choose an option, explain why, and name the owner, next action, and due date.

Output:

A decision that can be acted on without another meeting.

E05

Evaluate the result

Set a date or signal for review. State what evidence would continue, revise, or reverse the choice.

Output:

A review trigger and a clear change condition.

Why TRACE is useful

Many operating documents capture status but lose the reasoning behind a choice. TRACE keeps the minimum useful chain together: decision, reality, alternatives, commitment, and evaluation. The method works for reversible operating choices such as a pilot, process change, staffing assumption, or customer response.

When to use it

Use TRACE when a choice crosses teams, relies on uncertain evidence, has meaningful tradeoffs, or is likely to be debated again. Skip it for routine actions with one obvious owner and low consequence.

Quality check

  • Could a new reader state the exact choice?
  • Are facts, assumptions, and unknowns visibly different?
  • Is the current approach included as a real alternative?
  • Can the owner act without another interpretation meeting?
  • Is there a date or signal that will reopen the decision?

Use the full toolkit

Start with the decision brief builder, use a domain worksheet from the resource library, and compare the result with a fictional worked example.