Introduction

Have you ever spent hours debating a minor product tweak that could easily be reversed? Or rushed through a major decision without proper consideration?

There's a simple mental model that can help with this common problem.

What Are One-Way and Two-Way Door Decisions?

As Yuhki Yamashita, Chief Product Officer at Figma, puts it, not every decision needs a deep dive. When you're deciding, think: "Is this a one-way door or a two-way door?"

A one-way door decision is pretty much final. Once you make it, there's no easy way back. Think big changes like rebranding, major tech shifts, or changing how you charge customers.

A two-way door decision can be undone. You can try it out, see what happens, and switch things up if needed. This includes things like tweaking features, making small design changes, or adding options you can later remove.

From Amazon to Figma: A Universal Framework

Jeff Bezos popularized this concept at Amazon, calling them "Type 1 and Type 2 decisions" in his 2015 shareholder letter.

"Some decisions are consequential and irreversible or nearly irreversible. These decisions must be made methodically, carefully, slowly," Bezos wrote. "But most decisions aren't like that. They are changeable, reversible. You don't have to live with the consequences for that long."

Yamashita brings this same thinking to product development at Figma. When considering product changes, his team first determines which type of decision they're making, then applies the appropriate process.

How to Apply This Framework

The great thing about this model is how simple it is. Start each decision process by asking: "If we make this choice and it doesn't work out, how hard would it be to reverse course?"

For two-way door decisions:

• Move quickly

• Gather minimal consensus

• Emphasize learning through action

• Trust team members to execute independently

For one-way door decisions:

• Take your time

• Involve key stakeholders

• Conduct thorough analysis

• Document your reasoning

• Build broad consensus

Why This Matters

This framework helps avoid two big problems in organizations. First, it stops teams from overthinking decisions that can be easily changed. Second, it makes sure important decisions get the attention they need.

As product teams feel more pressure to act fast, knowing the difference between these types of decisions is really helpful. It lets you try new things while being careful when it matters.

Next time you're stuck on a decision, ask yourself if it's a one-way or two-way door. That will guide you on what to do next.