This PICK Chart Excel Template is a powerful Lean Six Sigma tool designed to help teams categorize and prioritize process improvement ideas effectively. Whether you’re conducting a brainstorming session, evaluating project ideas, or planning strategic initiatives, this template provides a structured framework to assess ideas based on their payoff and difficulty. Perfect for Lean Six Sigma practitioners, project managers, and team leaders, this tool ensures that your efforts are focused on the most impactful and feasible solutions.
Key Features:
- 2×2 Grid Layout : The template includes a visually intuitive 2×2 grid categorized into four quadrants: Implement (Easy, High Payoff) , Possible (Easy, Low Payoff) , Challenge (Hard, High Payoff) , and Kill (Hard, Low Payoff) .
- Customizable Idea Lists : Each quadrant has a dedicated section to list ideas, allowing you to document and organize suggestions during or after meetings.
- Clear Axes Labels : Axes are labeled with Low to High Payoff and Easy to Hard Difficulty , ensuring clarity in categorization and decision-making.
- Lean Six Sigma Reference : Includes detailed instructions on how to use the PICK Chart effectively during Lean Six Sigma events, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced practitioners.
- Flexible Documentation : Designed for easy adaptation, the template allows you to record ideas directly into the spreadsheet for a seamless transition from whiteboard sessions to electronic records.
Use Cases:
- Lean Six Sigma Teams : Use the template during Kaizen events or brainstorming sessions to evaluate and prioritize process improvement ideas.
- Project Managers : Categorize project tasks or initiatives based on feasibility and impact to allocate resources efficiently.
- Business Leaders : Assess strategic initiatives and focus on high-payoff, low-difficulty projects to drive quick wins.
- Educational Purposes : Teach students or teams about Lean Six Sigma methodologies and the importance of prioritizing ideas based on practicality and value.
Â
How It Works:
- Set Up the Chart : Begin by familiarizing yourself with the 2×2 grid layout. The axes represent Payoff (Low to High) and Difficulty (Easy to Hard) .
- Brainstorm Ideas : During your meeting or event, generate ideas and write them on sticky notes or directly into the spreadsheet under the respective categories (Implement , Possible , Challenge , Kill ).
- Categorize Ideas : Place each idea in the appropriate quadrant based on its payoff and difficulty. For example:
- High payoff and easy to implement ideas go into the Implement quadrant.
- Low payoff and hard to implement ideas are placed in the Kill quadrant.
- Prioritize Actions : Focus on ideas in the Implement quadrant first, as they offer the best return on investment. Evaluate Challenge ideas for long-term planning and avoid Kill ideas altogether.
- Document Progress : Use the provided space to record discussions, decisions, and next steps, ensuring all team members are aligned.




