Macro-Design · 2-4 hour workshops for initial mapping; 75 minutes for introductory concepts

Wardley Mapping

Wardley Mapping is a strategic framework that uses visual, spatial maps to represent the components of a system, their relationships, and their evolution over time. It is designed to provide situational awareness, allowing leaders to move from gut-instinct decision-making to evidence-based strategy.

When to use Wardley Mapping

This framework is most effective during complex strategic planning sessions, digital transformation projects, or when a team needs to align on a shared understanding of a competitive or organizational landscape.

How Wardley Mapping works

Instructional designers can use Wardley Mapping during the needs analysis phase to map the 'learning value chain,' identifying which skills are commodities and which are novel (Genesis). Facilitators can use it as a collaborative tool to help stakeholders visualize dependencies and reach a consensus on project priorities.

Phases of Wardley Mapping

  1. Purpose: Defining the moral imperative or 'game' being played
  2. Landscape: Mapping the value chain and components of the environment
  3. Climate: Identifying external forces acting upon the landscape
  4. Doctrine: Applying universal principles of organization and operation
  5. Leadership: Making strategic choices and taking action

Key principles

  • Visual and Spatial: Maps must show position and movement to be useful
  • Evolution: Everything moves from Genesis to Custom-Built, to Product, to Commodity
  • User-Centricity: All maps must start with a specific user and their needs
  • Situational Awareness: Strategy must be based on the context of the environment

Best for

  • Strategic Alignment
  • Systems Thinking
  • Change Management

Considerations

  • High initial learning curve for participants unfamiliar with spatial mapping
  • Requires a shift from narrative-based storytelling to visual-based mapping
  • The accuracy of the map is dependent on the diversity of perspectives in the room

Attribution & sources

Developed by Simon Wardley

Primary source

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