Objectives & Wardley Mapping
Strategic objectives and Wardley mapping for technical leadership
Wardley Mapping Framework
Mapping Process
1. List User Needs
- Identify primary user needs
- Map secondary needs
- Document pain points
- Capture future needs
2. Map Components vs Evolution
- Plot components on evolution axis
- Identify dependencies
- Note movement patterns
- Highlight opportunities
3. Strategic Decisions
- Build: Differentiating capabilities
- Buy: Market-available solutions
- Outsource: Non-core functions
- Retire: Obsolete components
Implementation Guide
First 30 Days
- Train on Wardley mapping
- Create initial maps
- Identify quick wins
60-90 Days
- Regular mapping sessions
- Strategy alignment
- Action planning
Beyond 90 Days
- Continuous mapping
- Strategy evolution
- Impact measurement
Anti-patterns
1. Static Maps
❌ Problem: Maps become outdated ✅ Solution: Regular updates and reviews
2. Technology Focus
❌ Problem: Ignoring user needs ✅ Solution: Start with user needs
3. Isolated Mapping
❌ Problem: Maps not connected to strategy ✅ Solution: Link to business objectives
Integration Points
With Other Practices
- Informs Mission & Objectives
- Guides Team Structure
- Supports Cost Optimization
With Tools & Systems
- Mapping software
- Strategy documentation
- Decision tracking
Related Topics
Pro Tip: Focus on the movement of components and the implications for your strategy, not just their current position.
Further Reading
- “Wardley Maps” by Simon Wardley
- “The Art of Strategy” by Sun Tzu
- “Good Strategy, Bad Strategy” by Richard Rumelt