The layout
The X-matrix gets its name from the large X in the centre that divides the page into four sections. Each section is read in sequence around the X:
| Position | Section | Question it answers |
|---|---|---|
| South | Breakthrough objectives (3 to 5 years) | Where are we going? |
| West | Annual objectives | What must we achieve this year? |
| North | Top-level improvement priorities | What will we work on to get there? |
| East | Targets to improve (metrics) | How will we measure progress? |
Down the right-hand side, a resource grid shows which people or teams own or support each priority. The corner grids use symbols, often filled and open dots, to mark strong or weak correlations between neighbouring sections.
How to build one
- Write the long-term breakthrough objectives in the south section.
- Derive annual objectives that move the organisation toward them.
- List the few improvement priorities that will deliver the annual objectives.
- Define the metrics that will show whether each priority is working.
- Mark correlations in each corner, and check every item links to something.
- Assign owners and supporting resources on the right.
- Use catchball to test the draft with the people who will carry it out.
What to look for
- An annual objective with no priority supporting it is a gap.
- A priority that links to nothing is a distraction.
- A person marked against many priorities is overloaded.
- A metric that does not connect to any objective adds noise.
Common mistakes
- Treating the matrix as the plan rather than a summary of it. Detail belongs in A3s and project plans.
- Filling every cell, which defeats the purpose of focus.
- Building it once and filing it. It should be reviewed with progress data during monthly hoshin reviews.
- Using it below the level where it adds value. Lower levels often use a simpler cascade or a team-level matrix.
Where it fits
The X-matrix is one tool within hoshin kanri. It summarises the plan agreed through catchball; it does not replace catchball, monthly reviews or the A3s that carry each priority forward.