Screening of Adaptation Options - matrix-based decision-making tool

Sep 11, 2026

Uploaded by Melati

Screening of Adaptation Options provides a matrix-based decision-making framework to narrow adaptation measures using user-defined evaluation criteria. The method structures questions on targeting high-priority areas, addressing opportunities, likely effectiveness, additional benefits (economic and environmental), cost, and feasibility. Users rate each measure with simple yes/no entries and may add criteria as needed. The tool is commonly paired with expert judgment, supports use across locations and sectors, and outputs a clear matrix of strengths and weaknesses. It includes guidance on inputs, ease of use, training needs, and resource contacts.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryPresentations

FormatPDF

Pages1

AccessFree to download

Screening of Adaptation Options

Appropriate Use

Scope

Key Output

Key Input

Ease of Use

Training Required

Training Available

Computer Requirements

Documentation

Applications

Contacts for Tools, Documentation, Technical Assistance Cost

References

Screening of Adaptation Options | Description | This matrix-based decision-making tool sets up a series of criteria that allow the user to narrow the list of appropriate adaptation measures. The user sets up a table with evaluation criteria across the top: Will the measure target a high-priority area? Will it address targets of opportunity? Is it likely to be effective? Will it generate other benefits (e.g. , economic, environmental)? Is it inexpensive? Is it feasible? The user can insert or substitute other criteria if they are more appropriate. The user then evaluates each measure against these criteria, entering a simple “yes” or “no” in the cells.
This tool is frequently combined with expert judgment. | | --- | --- | | Appropriate Use | This is a useful tool at the beginning of the decision-making process, allowing the user to create a manageable although possibly subjective list of options, which can then be analyzed more rigorously. | | Scope | All locations; all sectors; national or site-specific. | | Key Output | A simple matrix, clearly showing the strengths and weaknesses of a wide range of options. | | Key Input | Basic summary information about options under consideration. | | Ease of Use | Depends on specific application. | | Training
Required | Requires background knowledge of both the options and the climate change issue being addressed. | | Training
Available | Contact Stratus Consulting for more information (see below) . | | Computer Requirements | IBM-compatible 286; Lotus 1-2-3 or Excel spreadsheet software helpful. | | Documentation | Benioff, R. and J. Warren (eds.) . 1996. Steps in Preparing Climate Change Action Plans: A Handbook . U.S. Country Studies Program, Washington, DC. | | Applications | Used by several participants in the U.S. Country Studies and UNEP assistance programs (e.g., Kazakhstan, Cameroon, Uruguay, Bolivia, Antigua, and Barbuda) . | | Contacts for Tools, Documentation, Technical Assistance
Cost | Joel Smith, Stratus Consulting, P.O. Box 4059, Boulder, CO 80306; Tel: +1.303.381.8000; Fax: +1.303.381.8200; [e-mail:](e-mail: jsmith@stratusconsulting.com)[ j](e-mail: jsmith@stratusconsulting.com)[smith@stratusconsulting.com](e-mail: jsmith@stratusconsulting.com);
website: [http://www.stratusconsulting.com/](http://www.stratusconsulting.com/) .
No cost to obtain documentation or diskette with template of the decision matrix. | | References | Mizina, S.V., J.B. Smith, E. Gossen, K.F. Spiecker, and S.L. Witkowski. 1999. An evaluation of adaptation options for climate change impacts on agriculture in Kazakhstan. Mitigation and Adaptation Strategies for Global Climate Change 4:25-41. | Page 1-46 SC10341

FAQs

What is the purpose of the Screening of Adaptation Options tool?

It helps users narrow a list of adaptation measures by evaluating each option against a set of criteria in a structured decision matrix.

How does the tool evaluate each adaptation measure?

Users set up evaluation criteria across the top of a table and enter a simple “yes” or “no” in the corresponding cells for each measure.

What inputs, training, and resources are needed to use it?

It requires basic summary information about the options and background knowledge of both the options and the climate change issue. Training availability can be obtained by contacting Stratus Consulting, and computer support includes IBM-compatible 286 with Lotus 1-2-3 or Excel.

Sep 11, 2026

Uploaded by Melati