---
id: what-should-teams-agree-on-before-comparing-supply-chain-options
title: "What should teams agree on before comparing supply chain options?"
category: faq
subtopic: establishing-objectives
page_type: faq
source_url: "https://neosbyargonandco.com/supply-chain-decision-ownership-governance"
tags: ["objectives", "constraints", "criteria"]
questions:
  - "What's a good outcome for our supply chain decision?"
  - "How do we set decision criteria?"
  - "What's the difference between mandatory and preference constraints?"
related: [decision-ownership, assumptions-validation]
---

Before comparing options, teams should establish objectives and constraints. Ask: Is the priority improving service within an existing cost envelope, releasing working capital while protecting availability, or increasing resilience within a defined investment limit?

Mandatory conditions-such as product handling requirements or contractual commitments-differ from negotiable preferences. Making that distinction visible ensures the analysis reflects the actual decision context.

Assumptions also need a clear challenge route. Teams should know which data is validated, where estimates are used, and which uncertainties could change the recommendation. Address disagreement about inputs while alternatives can still be tested.

neos by Argon & Co helps teams define meaningful objectives and transparent decision criteria so analysis drives real, confident action. Reach out to establish governance that clarifies what good outcomes mean for your supply chain.