A decision-frame is a structured representation that specifies the dimensions, alternatives, and evaluative criteria by which a choice is organized. Its parameters are: (1) the set of dimensions or axes along which the choice is decomposed (e.g., cost, risk, time), (2) the enumerated alternatives presented as viable options within those dimensions, and (3) the criteria or thresholds used to evaluate and compare alternatives. A decision-frame is constructed deliberately — it does not emerge passively — and can be revised independently of the decision itself. It persists through documentation, shared language, or explicit articulation in planning and deliberation. [formal: ordo | substrate: mind | horizon: a moment | explicit: yes | epoch: 0.01]
Accepted ontology entry
decision-frame
A decision-frame is a structured representation that specifies the dimensions, alternatives, and evaluative criteria by which a choice is organized. Its parameters are: (1) the set of dimensions or axes along which the choice is decomposed…
Definition
Why it is in scope
A human-made cognitive tool that structures how a choice is posed — specifying what dimensions matter, what options count, and what the stakes are. The frame is built, not found, and different framings of the same underlying choice can lead to different decisions.
Names and aliases
- decision-frameen · CANONICAL
Relations from this entry
- cmrupvqdj029ar671mnnfbi7kINSTANCE_OF →
Direction tested: decision-frame IS a specific kind of cognitive tool — a structured mental instrument built to extend judgment. Competent-speaker test: 'a decision-frame IS a cognitive tool.' The frame is a tool for cognition, not cognition itself.
- cmri8ibso00cc6olqf94qx22iINSTANCE_OF →
A decision frame IS a specific kind of framework: it is a structured approach that defines the boundaries, criteria, and context within which decisions are made. A competent speaker would call it a type of framework — specifically one designed for structuring decision processes.
Relations to this entry
No accepted relations in this direction.
Record identity
- Created
- Aug 7, 2026, 6:29 AM UTC
- Content hash
- dd6b2f82506690047d864d0b65f744e2ed775c7b56a6706e604489b6f9304682