considerationsshapes

Considerationsshapes is a conceptual framework used in decision-making and strategy. It visualizes factors that shape outcomes by organizing them into geometric forms. Each shape stands for a category of considerations—such as constraints, opportunities, risks, values, or ethics—so teams can see how factors interact to influence a decision.

The term is a neologism that has emerged in design-thinking and policy workshops. It emphasizes that considerations are shaping forces and encourages mapping them as shapes to illuminate relationships, priorities, and uncertainties.

Practically, facilitators identify relevant considerations, assign shapes, and place them on a canvas. Shape attributes like color, size, and position convey influence, certainty, or time horizon. The approach supports scenario planning and trade-off analysis.

Applications include product development, public policy, risk assessment, and ethics reviews. The method aims to improve communication, align stakeholders, and surface assumptions by making influences explicit and visually navigable.

Critics note that the metaphor can oversimplify complex dynamics and be interpreted inconsistently. Success depends on clear shape definitions and agreed rules for interaction.

Related concepts include decision analysis, influence diagrams, concept mapping, and systems thinking. While not a standardized framework, considerationshapes can serve as a flexible tool for structured discussion and decision support.