RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
How LeadMatrix ranks firms — the algorithm in full
Every ranking is produced by the Leader Matrix: a transparent scoring system. Sponsorship does not affect rank. Algorithm version v1.0 · Recomputed on a weekly schedule.
Sponsorship does not affect rank. PRO and Sponsored placements add badges and ad slots only. Leader Matrix position is computed identically for free and paid listings. Automated tests assert the ranking service cannot read billing fields.
Two-axis Leader Matrix
Core competencies
How specialized a firm is in the service category you’re browsing — portfolio depth, claimed services, and category focus.
360° performance
How well they execute: verified reviews, recency, response signals, and verification depth.
360° performance weights
| Component | Weight | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Client reviews | 50% | Star rating, volume (log-scaled), recency |
| Market presence | 30% | Profile completeness, portfolio, geography |
| LeadMatrix score | 20% | Verification depth, response quality |
Review component (50%)
- Star rating mapped 3.0–5.0 → 0–100 (50% of review component)
- Review volume log-scaled, capped (30%)
- Recency % of reviews in last 18 months (20%) — old reviews decay
Verification pipeline
- Legitimacy — registered entity, founders, operating history
- Portfolio audit — real projects per claimed service
- Reference checks — client relationship validation on sample reviews
- Continuous monitoring — re-verification cadence
What money cannot buy
- Star ratings
- Leader Matrix position
- Review content
- Category organic order