Build a prioritization matrix using themes

Strategic themes should drive all prioritization decisions. Build a matrix that makes theme alignment the primary factor in choosing what to build.

Create a grid with "Theme Alignment" on one axis and "Effort" on the other. Score every proposed initiative on how strongly it supports your strategic themes. High theme alignment with low effort becomes your priority quadrant.

Add a second layer by weighing themes themselves. If "Accessibility" is more critical this year than "Advanced features," initiatives supporting accessibility get bonus points. This ensures resources flow to most important themes.

Include "theme coverage" in your analysis. Are all themes getting attention, or is one dominating? A healthy strategy portfolio has initiatives advancing each theme, though not necessarily equally. Make this matrix visible in all planning sessions. When debating what to build next, always return to theme alignment as the primary decision criterion. This keeps strategy from being forgotten in day-to-day execution.