explore · Strategy · 60–120 min · 3-12 people · medium energy
System Map
A System Map visually represents all actors involved in a service and their interconnections, including flows of information, resources, and value. It helps teams understand the holistic service ecosystem and identify potential areas for improvement or innovation.
When to use System Map
Use this method when you need to gain a shared understanding of a complex service, identify key stakeholders, and visualize the relationships between different service components.
What it solves
Lack of shared understanding of the service ecosystem, siloed thinking, difficulty identifying leverage points for improvement.
How to run System Map, step by step
- Identify the core service and its primary purpose. (5 min)
- Brainstorm all actors involved in the service, including users, providers, partners, and supporting systems. (20 min)
- Map the relationships between these actors, indicating the flow of information, resources, and value. Use arrows and labels to clarify the nature of each connection. (45 min)
- Review the map as a group, identifying gaps, bottlenecks, and opportunities for improvement. (30 min)
Materials needed
- Large paper or whiteboard
- Markers or pens
- Sticky notes (optional)
- Digital whiteboard (for hybrid)
- Timer
Facilitator tips
- Encourage participants to think broadly and consider all possible actors and relationships.
- Focus on capturing the key flows and connections, rather than getting bogged down in details.
- Use different colors or symbols to represent different types of relationships.
- Regularly check for understanding and ensure everyone is aligned on the map's content.
Common pitfalls
- Oversimplifying the map and missing key relationships.
- Getting bogged down in details and losing sight of the big picture.
- Failing to involve all relevant stakeholders in the mapping process.
- Not updating the map as the service evolves.
Variations
- Create separate maps for different aspects of the service, such as the user journey or the information flow.
- Use different mapping techniques, such as value network mapping or ecosystem mapping.
- Incorporate data and metrics into the map to quantify the impact of different relationships.
Running it online or hybrid
Use a digital whiteboard like Miro or Mural to allow for collaborative mapping and real-time updates.
What it produces
A visual map showing all actors, components, and their relationships within the service ecosystem.
Origin
Adapted from Service Design Tools — source
Build a session around System Map
METODIC places System Map inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.