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description: Map value chain components on an evolution axis to inform strategic decisions
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# Wardley Mapping

Visualize your value chain by plotting components from user need to underlying infrastructure, positioned by their evolutionary stage.

## Steps

1. Start with the **user need** at the top of the map
2. List all **components** needed to serve that need (capabilities, services, data, infrastructure)
3. Map **dependencies** -- draw the chain from user-visible to invisible components
4. Position each component on the **evolution axis**: Genesis -> Custom -> Product -> Commodity
5. Identify **strategic moves** -- build custom in Genesis, buy commodity, watch Product for disruption
6. Spot components ripe for **inertia** (resisting evolution) or **climatic patterns** (inevitable shifts)

## Output Format

**Anchor:** [User need]

| Component | Evolution Stage | Build/Buy/Partner | Strategic Note |
|-----------|----------------|-------------------|---------------|
| [Name] | [Genesis/Custom/Product/Commodity] | [Decision] | [Note] |

**Key moves:**
1. [Component] -- [Action and rationale]
2. [Component] -- [Action and rationale]

**Watch list:** [Components about to shift stage]