STRUCTURAL MAPPING FRAMEWORK
Decision Topology
Decision Topology is the mapping of the structural geometry of a decision — the pattern of compatibility, conflict, and convergence relationships between its evidence layers.
DECISIONS ARE STRUCTURES, NOT SCORES
A decision is not a number. It is a structure.
Most decision systems optimize outcomes. They assign weights, compute scores, and rank alternatives. This treats a decision as a scalar value — a single number on a single axis.
Most decision systems optimize outcomes.
Decision topology evaluates structure before optimization.
Two decisions can have identical composite scores and completely different structural geometries. One may be stable — its evidence layers reinforce each other across scenarios. The other may be fragile — held together by a single assumption that collapses under pressure. A score cannot distinguish them. A topology can.
THREE STRUCTURAL PROPERTIES
Every decision has three topological properties.
Compatibility
The degree to which evidence layers support and reinforce each other. High compatibility means layers are pointing in the same direction. Low compatibility means layers are pulling apart.
Conflict
The presence and severity of contradictions between evidence layers. Conflict is not merely disagreement — it is structural incompatibility that cannot be resolved without changing the decision premise.
Convergence
The tendency of the evidence assembly to resolve toward a stable, executable conclusion. A decision converges when its layers stabilize under variation. It diverges when small changes in assumptions produce large changes in outcome.
TOPOLOGY CLASSIFICATIONS
Decision topology types.
TAC classifies decision structures into the following topology types based on their compatibility, conflict, and convergence profiles:
STABLE ALIGNMENT
High compatibility, low conflict, strong convergence. Decision is structurally ready.
ACTIONABLE WITH RISK
Moderate compatibility, addressable conflict, sufficient convergence. Proceed with conditions.
STRUCTURAL TENSION
Significant conflict detected. Convergence unstable. Requires clarification before execution.
STRUCTURAL MISALIGNMENT
Evidence layers pointing in incompatible directions. Decision premise must be reconceived.
LOW READINESS
Insufficient evidence assembly. Decision cannot be evaluated — additional layers required.
SINGLE POINT DEPENDENCY
Convergence depends on one layer. Collapse of that layer collapses the decision.