Reintroducing the 3DM6 Approach
A Decision-Centered Strategy for Achieving Objectives
The 3DM6 Approach is a decision-centered planning framework that helps individuals and organizations align their objectives with plans to achieve them.
Origins and Evolution
Originally, I developed the 3DM6 Approach as a way to help Data and Analytics professionals connect their work more directly to business objectives and value.
Over time, I’ve come to see its potential for helping individuals and organizations of all types develop plans, stay on track, and remain flexible in the face of change. It supports alignment across teams while guiding and motivating the integration of new technologies… including AI.
What Is It?
The 3DM6 Approach is built on fairly simple best practices I’ve observed over the years. It includes four connected domains that can be used in any order. The important thing is to touch all four bases early and repeat often.
For a deeper dive, explore these links:
🔓 3DM6 Overview - Four Domains of the 3DM6 Approach
🔓 3DM6 Objective Analysis –Clear Goals for Alignment
🔓 3DM6 Decision Analysis – Decision Characteristics for Change Management
🔓 3DM6 Essential Analysis – Fundamental Analysis Techniques for Insights
🔓 3DM6 Solution Design – Components for Complete and Adaptable Plans
What’s Different About 3DM6?
There’s nothing especially complex or novel in the 3DM6 Approach. What may be distinctive is the synthesis of proven practices and the recommendation to apply them intentionally and continually.
The gap between what we intend and what we achieve is often blamed on a lack of talent, tools, or resources. While those factors matter, the deeper issues often lie in fragmented thinking and competing or misunderstood agendas.
The 3DM6 Approach provides structure for closing those gaps. It helps leaders articulate clear objectives and align efforts across disciplines and levels, while still leaving room for learning, adaptation, and creative problem-solving.
Why Does It Matter?
As the pace of change accelerates, so does the need for plans that balance focus and flexibility.
As AI capabilities expand, so does the need to integrate them thoughtfully and effectively.
Who Is It For?
Anyone frustrated by strategies that didn’t deliver could benefit from the 3DM6 Approach, especially executives and managers responsible for execution and alignment.
What to Expect
Practical applications and benefits
Exploration of the implications for AI adoption
Improved explanations of the Approach itself
A full list of articles will be available in the Table of Contents as it grows.
About the Paywall
While many posts will remain free, I’ve placed the more detailed guides to the 3DM6 Approach behind a paywall. Together, they form a kind of evolving textbook. The annual subscription price is low, giving you plenty of time to explore and apply the material.
Sharing and Use
The 3DM6 Approach is my intellectual property. You’re welcome to reference it for learning or discussion, I just ask that you give credit. For commercial use in courses, consulting, books, or software, please reach out. Terms will be reasonable.
Thank you for reading. I welcome your questions and comments as I continue my journey to becoming a “Decision Architect.”