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Positions

Core Concept

Positions are the options being considered in a decision. Each position represents a potential path forward.

What are Positions?

A position is one of the options being considered in a decision. For example, if the decision is "Which database should we use?", the positions might be:

  • PostgreSQL - Relational database with JSON support
  • MongoDB - Document-oriented NoSQL database
  • DynamoDB - AWS managed NoSQL service

Each position can have arguments made for or against it. When the decision is concluded, one position is selected as the winner (for Approved decisions) or no position is selected (for Rejected/Deferred decisions).

Creating Positions

Positions can be created in several ways:

  • Magic Paste: AI automatically extracts positions from your text
  • Manual: Click "Add Position" on the decision page
  • During discussion: Team members can propose new positions
tip
Good positions are mutually exclusive. If two positions can both be true, they might be arguments for a single position rather than separate options.

Position Structure

Title

A clear, concise name for the option. Often starts with a verb or describes the technology/approach (e.g., "Use PostgreSQL", "Build in-house", "Adopt microservices").

Description (Optional)

Additional context about what this position entails. Useful for options that aren't self-explanatory.

Arguments

Claims made for or against this position. Each argument has a stance (support or oppose) and evidence backing it up.

Votes

Team members can vote for positions they prefer. Votes are informational—the decision owner makes the final call.

The Winning Position

When a decision is concluded with "Approved" status, the decision owner selects a winning position. This becomes the official choice and is highlighted in the UI.

The winning position:

  • Gets a visual badge indicating it was selected
  • Is included in the comprehensive summary
  • Is exported to Git when syncing ADRs
  • Appears in briefings and reports
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For Rejected decisions, no position wins—the entire proposal is declined. For Deferred decisions, no position wins yet—the choice is postponed.

Best Practices

Include "Do Nothing"

For decisions that might not need action, include a "Status Quo" or "Do Nothing" position. This makes "no change" an explicit choice rather than an oversight.

Keep positions distinct

If two positions are very similar, consider merging them or clarifying their differences. Positions should represent meaningfully different paths.

Name positions neutrally

Avoid biased names like "The Best Option" or "Last Resort". Neutral names encourage fair evaluation of all options.

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    Positions | Arbtr Docs