Free template
Decision log template
A decision log keeps the reasons behind a choice, so months later nobody has to guess why it was made. This template covers context, options, the decision, the reasoning and what happens next.
The template
DECISION Date: Decided by: CONTEXT - Why this came up: OPTIONS CONSIDERED 1. 2. CHOSEN PATH & REASONING - What was decided: - Why: FOLLOW-UP ACTIONS -
How to fill it in
Context
One or two lines on the problem. Future readers won't remember the situation you're in today.
Options considered
Include the options you rejected. That stops the same debate starting again later.
Chosen path & reasoning
The 'why' is the most valuable line in the log. Write it even when it feels obvious.
Follow-up actions
A decision with no next step rarely sticks. Name what changes now and who does it.
Questions
What is a decision log?
A running record of important decisions, each with its date, the context, the options considered, what was chosen and why.
Which decisions should go in a decision log?
Ones that are hard to reverse, affect other people, or that you expect someone to question later, such as pricing, suppliers, tools or scope changes.
Is this template free?
Yes. Copy it and use it anywhere. In Loveley Desk it is built into the journal and every decision stays searchable.
Keep your notes and tasks together
In Loveley Desk, each decision is its own journal note, searchable later. Type # beside a follow-up action to turn it into a task.
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