A decision charter is a planning document that outlines the scope of the decision and the process to be followed to make it. Typically, it would be prepared following a decision sketch, and would include:

• A concise statement of the problem that triggered the decision process
• A clear statement of the decision to be made
• A description of linked decisions and how they interact with the focus decision (the decision at hand)
• Confirmed scope and constraints (what’s in and out of scope)
• General nature and scope of alternatives under consideration
• Preliminary objectives to be addressed (usually with flexibility for more to be identified during the process)
• Insight into anticipated trade-offs and critical uncertainties, particularly insofar as they affect the work plan and allocation of resources
• Anticipated approach to analysis and engagement
• Roles of decision makers, partners, stakeholders, Indigenous groups, advisory committees, experts and the public
• Milestones for decision maker review and input
• A work plan with budget and timeline