MoSCoW Prioritization Template
This MoSCoW template provides four category columns (Must have, Should have, Could have, Won't have), a capacity tracker that calculates the percentage of total effort in each category, and facilitation prompts for running a productive prioritization session. A 60% cap indicator highlights when Must haves consume too much capacity.
What This Includes
- Four category columns with drag and drop item placement
- Capacity tracker showing percentage of total effort per category
- 60% Must have cap indicator with visual warning
- Facilitation prompts: opening question, tiebreaker rules, closing review checklist
- Won't have parking lot with future cycle tagging
How to Use This Template
Prepare the Item List
Before the session, list all items (tasks, features, requirements) in the input column. Add estimated effort for each item if available. Share the list with participants 24 hours in advance so they arrive with initial opinions.
Run the Session
Review each item as a group. Place it in one of the four categories by consensus. If the group cannot agree, use the tiebreaker prompt: "If we ship without this item, does the delivery still work?" Yes = Should or Could. No = Must. Time box the session to 60 to 90 minutes for 20 to 30 items.
Check the 60% Cap
After categorization, check the capacity tracker. If Must haves exceed 60% of total effort, the group needs to downgrade some items to Should have. This is the hardest but most valuable part of the exercise.
Document and Transfer
Move the final categorized items into your task management tool. Tag each item with its MoSCoW category for tracking. Record Won't have items in a backlog for future cycle review.
This template structures a MoSCoW prioritization session as described in the MoSCoW Method guide. Use it for sprint planning, release scoping, or any group prioritization exercise.