Resources · Methodology
The Comparison Methodology explains how Future Green Technology compares technologies without reducing important requirements, evidence quality and uncertainty into a misleading single score.
What the method is for
The method is designed for technology decisions where options differ by scope, performance, evidence, risk and delivery responsibility. It separates mandatory gates from weighted tradeoffs, then records the evidence behind each judgment. A technology that fails a safety, compliance, interoperability or site-readiness gate should not be rescued by strong scores in less important categories.
Core structure
| Layer | Purpose | Decision output |
|---|---|---|
| Decision boundary | Defines outcome, scope, site or organizational context and the options being compared. | A common basis for comparison. |
| Mandatory gates | Tests non-negotiable requirements before scoring begins. | Pass, conditional, fail or not assessed. |
| Weighted criteria | Compares tradeable differences among acceptable options. | Structured score with notes. |
| Evidence confidence | Records whether support is measured, contractual, independently verified, estimated or claimed. | Visible uncertainty and follow-up actions. |
| Written tradeoff | Explains why the preferred option is justified. | Auditable recommendation. |
How to use it
- Write the decision question before naming a preferred vendor or technology.
- List mandatory gates separately from weighted preferences.
- Use score anchors for high-weight criteria.
- Record evidence locators, dates, owners and limitations.
- Preserve exclusions, assumptions and unresolved questions.
- Explain the final tradeoff in words, not only as a number.
Method limit: this approach supports transparent decision records. It does not approve a project, replace engineering, legal, tax, procurement or safety review, or guarantee future performance.
Related worksheets
Use the Technology Evaluation Scorecard to apply this method, the TCO Worksheet for economic boundaries and the Vendor Comparison Worksheet for supplier proposals.
Reviewed and updated 14 July 2026. Organizational author: Future Green Technology, published by Zenith Star Media.