---
id: how-do-i-establish-a-baseline-for-a-decision
title: "How do I establish a baseline for a decision?"
category: guide
subtopic: establish-baseline
page_type: guide
source_url: "https://neosbyargonandco.com/implementing-continuous-decision-intelligence"
tags: ["analysis", "data", "measurement"]
questions:
  - "What is a baseline in decision analysis?"
  - "How do I create a baseline for comparison?"
  - "What data do I need to establish a baseline?"
related: [bounded-question, compare-options]
---

A baseline represents your current performance closely enough that your team can understand and explain important differences when you compare alternatives.

Gather the data needed for your decision-recorded capacity, lead times, costs, and other relevant measures. Test this data with people who understand your operation, because documented figures often need clarification before they can support meaningful comparison. Document any missing information and assess whether it could change your decision.

Some gaps can be explored through ranges or sensitivity testing; others need resolving first. A solid baseline helps your decision owner understand the trade-offs and assumptions behind each option you evaluate.

Once your baseline is clear, you can develop alternatives and test them against consistent objectives. Neos by Argon & Co can guide you through building a credible baseline and the analytical approach that follows. Contact us to get started.