What is Impact Mapping?
It is a technique used to focus on the goals and how to achieve them.
Definition
Impact Mapping is a visual technique used to help teams focus on the goals they want to achieve and how to achieve them.
Iterative Process
It is often applied in the early stages of development to create a strategic plan and a product roadmap.
Collaborative Tool
Impact Mapping involves all stakeholders in a collaborative discussion to prioritize actions that will have the most significant impact.
Four Levels
The technique is structured around four levels - Goals, Actors, Impacts, and Deliverables - to map the connections between the 'Why', 'Who', 'How', and 'What'.
Goals
The first step in Impact Mapping is defining the overall goal, ensuring it is Specific, Measurable, Actionable, Realistic, and Time-bound (SMART).
Actors
Identify key actors or stakeholders who can influence the success of the project, avoiding generic terms like 'users' and being specific about user categories or roles.
Impacts
Determine how the identified actors can help achieve the project goals and the specific impacts that will contribute to success.
Deliverables
List the high-level features or characteristics that need to be developed, which can serve as an initial product roadmap.
Want to learn more?
If you'd like to go deeper into Impact Map —or bring this kind of training to your team— let's talk. I help teams understand and apply these concepts. I'd love to hear from you!
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