Decision Document Framework by Arnav Kumar

Arnav Kumar proposes a structured framework for writing decision documents that accelerate approval processes and demonstrate leadership maturity.

Core Principle: Write Everything Down

Avoid verbal-only conversations. Create comprehensive written documents that serve as clear communication artifacts and decision records.

Five Essential Components

1. Final Recommendation (Summary)

• State the outcome clearly upfront
• Make it easy for decision-makers to understand what you’re proposing
• Lead with the answer, not the journey

2. Stream of Thought (Reasoning)

• Show how you arrived at your recommendation
• Include calculations, modeling, and assumptions
• Make it easy for people to stress-test your thinking
• Demonstrate rigorous analysis

3. Action Items (Execution Plan)

• List concrete steps to reach the recommended state
• Include success metrics and goals
• Define timelines and milestones
• Make the execution plan crystal clear

4. Pre-Mortem Summary (Risk Analysis)

• Identify what could go wrong
• List things to watch out for
• Show you’ve thought through edge cases
• Demonstrate you’ve covered all bases

5. Cost Implications (Resource Requirements)

• Detail resources needed
• Clarify budget requirements
• Make it easy to understand what you’re asking for
• Enable informed resource allocation decisions

Benefits

According to Kumar, this framework delivers:

• 10x faster approvals: Decision-makers have everything they need
• Reduced back-and-forth: Comprehensive documentation preempts questions
• Leadership credibility: Demonstrates maturity and thoroughness
• Better decisions: Forces rigorous thinking and planning
• Influence and persuasion: Shows systematic thinking ability

Context

This is one of many frameworks for decision documentation. Other notable approaches include:

• [[Amazon’s 6-Pager]] - Narrative-driven decision documents
• [[RACI Matrix]] - Responsibility assignment frameworks
• [[Architecture Decision Records]] - Technical decision documentation
• [[Request for Comments]] - Collaborative decision-making process

Atomic Notes

• [[Pre-Mortem Analysis]]

This framework could also inform notes on:

• Decision-making processes
• Leadership communication
• Documentation best practices

Related Concepts

• [[Engineering Strategy]]
• [[Value Stream Mapping]]

Source: LinkedIn Post by Arnav Kumar