Problem Statements

-How many problems?
-Are the problems substantial?

Identifies more than one specific, substantial problem faced by the company. 

Identifies one specific, substantial problem faced by the company. 

Problems identified are not defined in specific enough terms or not substantial enough. 

Problem Analysis

-More than one?
-At least one analysis tool?
-Financial analysis?

Analysis includes all of the following:
- More than one stated problems is
   analyzed thoughtfully
- At least 1 analysis tool is correctly
   applied
- Relevant financial analysis is correctly applied if applicable (Financial ratios or other financial analysis approach)

Analysis includes 2 of the following:

-  1 problem is analyzed thoughtfully
OR 2 problems are covered superficially.

- At least 1 analysis tool is correctly applied.

Problem analysis is vague or nonexistent, and analysis tools are incorrectly applied.

Identification of Alternatives

- How many alternatives?
- Do alternatives clearly address problems?
  

Identifies a comprehensive set of 3 or more thoughtful alternatives, excluding “Do Nothing” alternatives.  Alternatives address all relevant aspects of the stated problems. 

Identifies 2 alternatives, excluding "Do Nothing" alternatives.  Alternatives address most relevant aspects of the stated problems. 

Identifies one or no alternatives other than a "Do Nothing" alternative.  Alternatives do not clearly address stated problem.

Evaluation of Alternatives

-  Are alternatives based on prior analyses?
-  How convincing and comprehensive are the arguments provided?
  

Alternatives are evaluated based on prior analyses.  Arguments are convincing and comprehensive.

Alternatives are evaluated based on prior analyses.  The arguments are largely convincing but maybe not comprehensive. 

Alternatives are not clearly related to prior analyses.  Arguments are not convincing and/or not comprehensive.

Alternative Selection and Implementation

- Is an alternative selected?
- Is selection justified with pros and cons?
- Does implementation plan
  include actions and timelines?

One alternative is selected, and the selection is justified with a clear set of pros and cons.  Implementation plan includes specific actions and timelines.

One alternative is selected, and the selection is justified, although it misses a few pros and/or cons. Implementation plan includes actions and timelines.

Either no alternative is selected, or the selected alternative is not justified.  Implementation plan is unspecific or does not exist.