Strategic Platform Planning with Wardley Maps
A tool and approach to map out different systems and how they are connected. Determine strategy to evolve the landscape. Provides insights in how platforms support other systems and determine organization level strategy towards different platforms.
What is Wardley Mapping?
Wardley mapping is a strategic planning technique that helps you:
- Visualize the value chain of your platform ecosystem
- Understand the evolution of different components
- Identify strategic opportunities and threats
- Make informed decisions about build vs. buy vs. partner
- Align organizational strategy with platform development
Platform Engineering Applications
Use Wardley maps for platform engineering to:
- Map your current platform landscape and dependencies
- Identify which components should be commoditized vs. differentiated
- Plan platform evolution and technology adoption
- Understand competitive dynamics in your technology space
- Guide investment decisions and resource allocation
Learning Resources
Free Book:
- Learn Wardley Mapping - Complete online resource
- Free Wardley Mapping Book - Comprehensive guide
Simon Wardley Video Series
Essential viewing for understanding Wardley Maps:
- Part 1: How and why to map your business - Introduction to mapping concepts
- Part 2: How to spot patterns - Identifying strategic patterns
- Part 3: How to anticipate change - Predicting evolution
- Part 4: How to use doctrine and gameplay - Strategic principles and tactics
Getting Started
Begin your Wardley mapping journey:
- Start with the free online book to understand core concepts
- Watch Simon Wardley's video series for practical examples
- Create your first map of a simple platform component
- Practice mapping with your team in workshop format
- Apply insights to your platform strategy and roadmap