NORTHSTAR / RESEARCH BRIEF
Research decision brief ยท Sample content

A decision you can explain.

A sample brief for comparing project tools. Add current sources and verified findings before using this Page to make a real decision.

A magnifying lens, botanical specimens and a balance for comparing evidence
Question
Which tool fits?

Start with the decision, audience, and constraints.

Scope
Three options

Compare the same criteria for every option.

Status
Research draft

Sample findings need verification and source links.

The working brief

Option A / Simple setup

Example tradeoff: a smaller feature set may be easier to adopt. Verify setup requirements, costs, and limitations.

Option B / More customization

Example tradeoff: configuration may take more time. Check who will maintain it and what access it requires.

Option C / Existing workflow

Example tradeoff: keeping current tools avoids migration but may leave the original problem unresolved.

Details to review

Evaluation criteria Agree on the required workflow, access controls, budget, and ongoing maintenance before scoring options.
Evidence and sources For each material claim, add an official source URL, the date checked, and any uncertainty. No example claim here is verified research.
Recommendation State the preferred option, the supporting evidence, and what new information would change your view.