Every problem, big or small, ends up on the founder's desk by default.
An Escalation Protocol defines exactly which decisions get escalated, to whom, and at what threshold, so the founder only sees what genuinely needs them.
The pattern we see over and over
We build a decision rights framework paired with an escalation matrix, defining decision categories, ownership at each level, and the specific thresholds that trigger escalation upward.
Every category of recurring decision gets a clear owner and a clear threshold, drawn from what has actually been escalated to the founder in recent months, not a generic template.
The output is a single reference matrix showing exactly what gets escalated, to whom, and when, so staff stop defaulting every ambiguous decision to the top.
How it runs
What you get
What affects the cost?
Every engagement is scoped to your situation - not a fixed menu price. We quote after a 30-minute discovery call, never before. Three things shape the investment:
More distinct decision types mean more categories to define.
Larger teams need more training sessions to embed the matrix.
Optional AI-assisted escalation logging and pattern tracking.
The discovery call is free and comes with no obligation. We will tell you on the call whether this engagement is right for your situation - and give you a fixed quote before any work begins.
Frequently asked questions
Some will, until the matrix builds trust. That's expected and normal in the first few weeks.
No. It gives managers a clear boundary for the judgment they're already meant to exercise.
Yes. It's often paired with a Reporting Structure Design engagement but can also stand alone.
Related reading
Ready to fix this?
Book a free 30-minute discovery call. We will tell you whether this engagement is right for your situation - and give you a fixed quote before any work begins.