Kepner-Tregoe Decision Analysis

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Use a diverse team of about 5 - 7 people to do the following

Determine the Problem to Be Solved

Separate hard, verifiable recorded facts from assumptions, opinions, legends, or myths.
Separate truth from untruth
Work to a precise definition of the problem to be corrected
Repeatedly use these questions to develop a well-defined problem:
What?
When?
Where?
Who?
How?
Extent: How large is it?
Is it Growing?

Identify the qualities that a possible solution must have
Musts: A solution must have this quality or it fails
Wants - High, Medium, and Low: These are qualities that an ideal solution should have
The final solution(s) must satisfy all of the Must qualities and as many of the Wants as possible, especially the High Level Wants.
Brainstorm possible solutions. Generate as many options as possible. Don't start to narrow down your choices until the end.
Compare the possible solutions with the desired qualities. Select the most cost-effective one(s) to plan and execute.

Select one of the best solutions developed during Decision Analysis.
On a spreadsheet, flipchart, white board, or piece of paper list the steps that must be taken.
Don't be concerned about the order yet. These can be rearranged. Treat this like wet clay that you are shaping.
Move the early steps to the upper, left side. Put later steps to the lower, right side.
Identify which steps need to be taken earliest.
Brainstorm possible hurdles that may need to be overcome; identify corrective actions to keep the project on track.
Provide for contingencies: Plan for potential disruptions like weather delays, employee absences, supplier problems, etc.
Identify possible good outcomes for each step. Identify ways to use these to reduce costs and the project timetable.
Take advantage of unexpected opportunities, like technology improvements or alternate suppliers.
Take advantage of the diversity of your team. Each member probably has a different way of looking at the same thing-and their personalities are likely very different, too!
Use the natural optimists and natural pessimists—or realists if you prefer—as you develop your schedule. This will give you the best balance, and a much more successful result.
Keep in mind that even with the best of planning unexpected things can happen. Be prepared to change course and adapt to the changing conditions.