PROMPT stands for Provenance, Relevance, Objectivity, Method, Presentation, and Timeliness. It’s a mnemonic device used to evaluate the credibility and usefulness of information. Here’s a breakdown of each criteria:

Provenance (Source):

Relevance:

Objectivity:

Method:

Presentation:

Timeliness:

By considering these PROMPT criteria, you can become a more critical consumer of information. It equips you to assess the quality and trustworthiness of information you encounter online, in libraries, or anywhere else.

Also, from another source:

PROMPT criteria is a framework used for evaluating and selecting potential solutions or options in decision-making processes. PROMPT stands for:

  1. Practicality: Practicality refers to the feasibility and viability of implementing a particular solution or option. It involves assessing whether the solution can be realistically implemented given available resources, time constraints, and organizational capabilities. Considerations include cost-effectiveness, technical feasibility, and operational requirements.
  2. Reliability: Reliability refers to the dependability and consistency of a solution or option in producing the desired outcomes. It involves evaluating the reliability of data, evidence, or methodologies used to support the solution, as well as the reliability of the solution itself in achieving the intended results. Considerations include the quality of evidence, past performance, and potential risks or uncertainties.
  3. Objectivity: Objectivity refers to the fairness, impartiality, and lack of bias in the evaluation and selection process. It involves ensuring that decisions are based on objective criteria and evidence rather than personal preferences, biases, or conflicts of interest. Considerations include transparency, neutrality, and adherence to established criteria or standards.
  4. Measurability: Measurability refers to the ability to quantify and measure the effectiveness or performance of a solution or option. It involves defining clear metrics, indicators, or criteria for evaluating outcomes and monitoring progress towards achieving goals. Considerations include the availability of data, the suitability of performance measures, and the ability to track results over time.
  5. Prudency: Prudency refers to the wisdom, caution, and sound judgment exercised in selecting a solution or option. It involves considering the potential risks, uncertainties, and long-term consequences associated with the decision, as well as the need to balance short-term gains with long-term sustainability. Considerations include risk assessment, contingency planning, and ethical considerations.

By applying the PROMPT criteria, decision-makers can systematically evaluate and compare potential solutions or options, weigh their respective strengths and weaknesses, and make informed decisions that are practical, reliable, objective, measurable, and prudent. This framework helps ensure that decisions are based on rational analysis and consideration of relevant factors, leading to more effective and successful outcomes.