Context Map (Gamestorming)
The Context Map helps teams visualize external factors affecting their organization, enabling strategic foresight. Use it to understand political, economic, technological, and other external influences, allowing teams to respond proactively.
How to run it
- 1
Hang six sheets of flip-chart paper in a two-row, three-column format on a wall.
- 2
On the top-middle sheet, draw a representation of the organization and label it.
- 3
Label the top-left and top-right sheets 'TRENDS' with arrows pointing horizontally.
- 4
Label the bottom-left sheet 'TECHNOLOGY FACTORS' with arrows pointing up.
- 5
Label the bottom-middle sheet 'CUSTOMER NEEDS' with a relevant image.
- 6
Label the bottom-right sheet 'UNCERTAINTIES' with an image like a thundercloud.
- 7
Guide the group to discuss and fill in each category, excluding TRENDS, with relevant insights.
- 8
For TRENDS, determine specific qualifiers through group consensus and fill in the details.
- 9
Summarize the findings and discuss insights and observations with the group.
Tips
Prepare by researching external factors relevant to the organization.
Encourage diverse perspectives to enrich the map.
Keep discussions focused on external factors to maintain the exercise's strategic intent.
Variations
Consider using digital tools for remote teams or to capture the map for future reference. Adapt the categories to fit specific industry contexts or focus areas.
Where it fits
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Try it freeMethod descriptions on Workshop Weaver are original content written by our team, based on established facilitation practices. This method was inspired by work from Gamestorming.