People perform actions because they are triggered by motivations. Pretty much all of the motivating factors out there can be distilled into six core types: incentive, achievement, social acceptance, fear, power, and growth. By creating a matrix that relates these motivating factors with various users of a product in different contexts, you can write statements that predict how a user might interact with the project in a particular context.

- self assessment

The motivation matrix is primarily for an internal understanding amongst the project teams and might not necessarily involve the stakeholders.

The Motivation Matrix can be done individually or in groups (preferable). The first step is to make a list of your stakeholders (See Stakeholders Map tool) and organize them on the matrix accordingly. The next step is to analyze one by one relationships and benefits of each stakeholder. Their engagement can be mapped into the intrinsic, extrinsic, positive and negative quadrants.

On debating over the completed matrix, the team can identify if the motivations are strong enough for the project to be successful.  If the matrix is leaning towards the Positive/Internal quadrant, it is ideal. This sweet spot offers people the highest probability of satisfaction and self-validation, along with successful and fulfilling change.

The 4 quadrant model is the fastest and most efficient to map however more detailed matrices that can be used for a more in-depth analysis.