Unlock the power of ecosystem mapping

TL;DR

Visualize Complex Networks with Ecosystem Mapping: Understand stakeholders, systems, and relationships for effective design. Discover step-by-step instructions and a downloadable PDF worksheet to create your own ecosystem map. Identify gaps, leverage opportunities, and make informed design decisions.

Creating an ecosystem map is a powerful tool for designers to visualize and understand the complex network of stakeholders, systems, and relationships that impact a particular product or service. In this guide, we will provide step-by-step instructions for creating an ecosystem map, and PDF worksheet for people to start crafting their own.

Define the scope and purpose of the ecosystem map

The first step in creating an ecosystem map is to define the scope and purpose of the map. What problem are you trying to solve? What are the key stakeholders and systems that impact the product or service you are designing? The answers to these questions will help you determine the boundaries of the map and what information you need to include.

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Identify key stakeholders

Identify the key stakeholders who impact the product or service, including customers, suppliers, partners, regulators, and competitors. Consider the goals, motivations, and behaviors of each stakeholder.

Map the relationships

Map the relationships between stakeholders, including dependencies, interactions, and feedback loops. Consider the nature of the relationships, whether they are competitive or collaborative, and the level of influence each stakeholder has over others.

Map the systems

Map the systems that impact the product or service, including technology, infrastructure, and policies. Consider the interdependencies between systems, and how changes in one system can impact others.

Identify gaps and opportunities

Identify gaps and opportunities in the ecosystem map. Are there areas where stakeholders are not adequately served, or where there are opportunities for innovation and growth? Consider how you can leverage the ecosystem map to drive insights and inform design decisions.

Download our PDF worksheet to start crafting your own ecosystem map. The worksheet provides a step-by-step guide and includes templates to help you visualize relationships and systems.