Module 6
Decision tables, exceptions and precedence: when rules collide
A tree is easy to read for a small decision, but it grows quickly. Each new rule that applies alongside the others doubles the number of routes, and the tree soon repeats itself, as the Harlow tree already repeated its value question. A decision table is the lawyer’s friend here: it lays out the same logic as a grid in which each row is a rule, so that gaps and conflicts can be seen at a glance. This module teaches how to use a table, how to test it for completeness and consistency, how to handle exceptions and precedence when rules collide, and how to keep a rule set traceable to its legal source. The same tool is used in the practice at the end, with a larger rule set.
Module 1 of this course is free, and this is not it. Unlock the whole course below, or go back to the course page.
Two Ways In
Introductory PriceProcess Mapping and Decision Design: buy it on its own, or get it with All-Access
Unlock all of Process Mapping and Decision Design on its own with a one-time purchase, or get it as part of an All-Access Membership, which also covers every course and the other paid tools. A member never needs to buy it separately.
This is an early, introductory price for a brand-new product — it’s expected to rise as we add more content. Buy now and it’s yours at today’s rate, forever.
No account needed: you pay, and we email you a one-click sign-in.
All-Access is $19.99 a month or $149 a year, and covers every course and most tools, this one included. Create a free account to subscribe.
Look first, then buy. Free previews on every product page. Secure payment by Stripe. Pay once, keep it forever. Details
See what is included in All-Access →General education on process design, using invented organisations, policies and figures. It is not legal advice. Rules in the examples are illustrations: a real policy or statute must be read from its source, and any decision logic built from it should be checked by a lawyer.
Teaching? Share this with your class
Free to use in class. The free parts open for everyone, no account needed.