> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.orbid.dev/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Quick rank vs formal match

> Quick rank shortlists products; formal match checks compliance before fill. Do not treat rank score as award readiness.

# What is the difference between quick rank and formal match?

**Quick rank** is a fast shortlist using coarse signals. **Formal match** evaluates requirements more thoroughly against product specifications and evidence. Rank is for selection; formal match is for compliance confidence before fill.

## Details

* **Goal**
  * Quick rank: Shortlist
  * Formal match: Compliance confidence
* **Depth**
  * Quick rank: Shallow
  * Formal match: Requirement-heavy
* **Use before fill**
  * Quick rank: No (alone)
  * Formal match: Yes

### Anti-pattern

Using rank score as a substitute for hard-limit review. A high soft score can still fail a knockout row.

## Related

* [Match workflow](/guides/workflows/match-and-review-gaps) · [Concept: formal vs rank](/concepts/formal-vs-rank-match) · [Hard limits FAQ](/faq/go-no-go-and-limits)

## Product note

Orbid AI matching assists review; humans own strategy. Product: [orbid.dev](https://orbid.dev).