-- the four gate questions

If any question cannot be answered clearly, the gate stays closed.

-- Q1 - WHY

Why are we doing this?

The problem must be defined with evidence, not assumption. If the "why" is vague, the decision is not ready.

-> What specific problem are we solving?

-> What is the evidence this is the right problem now?

-> What happens if we do nothing?

-- Q2 - FOR WHOM

Who is affected by this decision?

Identify who benefits and who may be harmed. Decisions that affect people without consulting them carry compounded risk.

-> Who benefits, and in what concrete way?

-> Who may be negatively affected?

-> Who has no voice in this decision?

-- Q3 - CONSEQUENCES

What are we accepting by deciding this?

Risks, costs, and second-order effects must be made explicit before commitment. Assign a Reversibility Index (1–5).

-> What is the worst realistic outcome?

-> Is this decision reversible? (Rate 1–5)

-> What are the second-order effects?

-- Q4 - RESPONSIBILITY

Who takes ownership of the outcome?

A single named individual accepts accountability. Not a team. Not a committee. One person whose name appears in the Decision Log.

-> Name the owner explicitly — not a role.

-> If no one accepts ownership, close the gate.

-> The owner signs the Decision Log entry.