The Four Categories method helps prioritize ideas, categorizing them based on their nature and potential impact. This method divides ideas into 4 distinct types:

• The Rational Choice: These are practical, sensible ideas that are grounded in logic and feasibility. They are the safest bets, typically based on data or proven methods.
• The Most Likely to Delight: Ideas that focus on user experience and satisfaction. These are designed to excite or please customers and often involve innovative or creative elements.
• The Darling: Often the team's favorite ideas, these may not always be the most practical, but they are cherished for their uniqueness or visionary aspects.
• The Long Shot: These are the wild cards – ambitious, less predictable ideas with a potential high payoff. They are the least certain but can lead to groundbreaking innovations if successful.

By selecting one or two ideas from each category, teams ensure a balanced approach, covering everything from practical, reliable solutions to more adventurous, potentially game-changing concepts.