After creating a decision matrix, the concept with the highest overall value should always be selected for use in the final design.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Only if supported by data
• D. Not necessarily

Answer: (A)

A decision matrix scores each concept by how well it meets multiple criteria, using weights to reflect how important each criterion is. Because these scores are combined into a single total, the concept with the highest overall value represents the strongest overall fit to the project goals. Therefore, when the matrix is built with relevant criteria, meaningful data, and appropriate weights, the highest-scoring concept is the most justified choice to take into the final design. This provides a transparent, quantitative basis for selection that stakeholders can understand and agree with.