1. Agree on the criteria for ranking ideas.
2. Identify each idea on the list with a letter of the alphabet.
3. Individually list the letters on paper and indicate the rank of each idea, with 1 being 1st choice.
4. Take turns calling out the ranking of the ideas.
5. Record and add the rankings on a flipchart.
6. Analyze the results, looking at both the total for each idea as well as individual rankings.

How To Set Criteria

1. Generate a few criteria ideas, and list on a flipchart.
2. Through discussion or consensus, reach agreement on the criteria that all members will use.
3. There can be one or more criteria for any decision.
4. Criteria may be objective or subjective.

REFERENCE: The Seven-Step Meeting Process and Tools from Executive Learning, Inc. Handbook for Improvement, Nashville: ELI, 2002.