Guideline 5.3-- Graded Approach.

DOE-DP-STD-3023-98

9.5.2

Guideline 5.2-- Flexibility. The RBP system should have the flexibility to allow its

application to a broad range of prioritization projects while maintaining its

completeness and effectiveness.

Discussion.

a. Range of Applicability. It is desirable to use the same RBP system in many

prioritization projects to promote consistency, thus allowing meaningful

comparisons of results. This standard recognizes that prioritization projects often

have unique requirements and needs and that it is unlikely that any single RBP

system will have the capability to effectively address all prioritization projects. To

the extent possible, the set of RBP systems used should all originate from a

common basis (similar assumptions, similar sets of performance measures, etc.).

b. Adaptability. An RBP system should be readily adaptable so that the insights

gained from its application can be incorporated. It is noted that insights about the

RBP system's efficacy and efficiency may be gained (1) from lessons learned

during previous prioritization projects or (2) during the conduct of an ongoing

prioritization project. For example, preliminary results from a prioritization project

may indicate that the RBP system used cannot sufficiently discriminate among

decision options. It is preferable that the current RBP system be modified (for

example, through the addition, deletion, or modification of certain performance

measures) to allow greater discrimination among decision options rather than

developing a new RBP system.

9.5.3

Guideline 5.3-- Graded Approach. In order to ensure that the RBP process is both an

effective and efficient use of resources, it is important that the depth and rigor with

which the guidelines are applied be carefully tailored to the problem being worked.

This tailoring of an approach to the nature of the decision problem is known as a

graded approach. In general, it requires that the sophistication of the method

selected, the depth and rigor of analysis, and the thoroughness of documentation

should be commensurate with:

a. The importance of the decision(s) to be made.

b. The difficulty of resolving the associated priorities.

c. The need to communicate the prioritization results and their basis to interested

parties.

Discussion. Many DOE decisions tend to focus on complex problems, often involving

uncertainty, multiple conflicting objectives, controversial tradeoffs, far-reaching

consequences, and multiple stakeholders. The many guidelines provided in this

standard are intended to aid in making difficult decisions well. However, it should be

noted that not all DOE decisions are this complex and, further, the development of a

RBP system that is consistent with these many guidelines is a significant undertaking,

and should not be approached lightly. The idea of a graded approach is to recognize

that only in unusual circumstances will it be necessary to rigorously implement all of

the guidelines. In general, activities with significant costs or those with health, safety,

and/or environmental risks will have greater data needs than those with less