Why do many productivity, prioritization, and time-management frameworks use a 2×2 Matrix?

Examples:

• Eisenhower Matrix
• Ansoff Matrix
• Impact & Effort Matrix
• Value & Risk Matrix
• Customer Needs – Competetive Position Matrix
• Market Growth – Market Share Matrix
• SWOT Analysis

This is a common convention for the following reasons:

1. Simplicity & Clarity
   Provides a clear & simple visual representation of the different elements being analyzed. Provides a clear-cut categorization and makes it easy to understand and interpret the matrix.
2. Dichotomous Classification
   It becomes easier to identify and evaluate each element when distinct categories are specified. For example, in SWOT analysis, strengths and weaknesses represent internal factors, while opportunities and threats represent external factors.
3. Balance
   When positive, negative, internal, and external factors are considered, it helps provide a comprehensive yet balanced perspective.

Which matrices have you used? Were/Are they 2×2 matrix?