Thread by @swardley

X : Was mapping used in HS2?
Me : Yes, by @GoAgileGov (the former CIO) e.g. in creating the virtual world service for planning its construction. The net effect was that service was delivered under budget and ahead of schedule.
X : How about the rest of HS2?
Me : No idea.

X : Could mapping be used beyond IT?
Me : Of course. In the case of HS2 I don't believe it spread beyond it.
X : Is it still used today?
Me : I don't know the answer to that. I do know there has been a change of executive and that can often mean a change in practice.

X : What's the largest impact of mapping on a project?
Me : The impact varies because it depends upon what is there and what you decide to do once you have a map. The single largest effect I know of is around an estimated £1.5bn saved in the lifetime of a project.

X : Is mapping used in brexit?
Me : I have no idea but I would hope that Gov has a clear idea of the value chains, key industries and where to focus.
X : What do you honestly think?
Me : I have no idea. Maps are weapons, I wouldn't tell anyone if I knew.

X : What will mapping do for my company?
Me : [/shrugs]
X : You must have some idea?
Me : It depends upon what you find with the map and what you decide to do with what you find. Maps don't tell you what to do, they just show a landscape.

X: That's not a very persuasive argument for mapping.
Me : I'm not trying to persuade you. Only use them if you find them useful.
X : But I don't know whether to invest the effort.
Me : Then don't. Over time it'll be clear enough whether maps are generally useful.

X : But what if maps are really useful and I miss out on this?
Me : Ah, the fear of missing out. Look, I don't have a crystal ball. I find maps useful, the maps tell me that a form of maps will become industrialised over time. Only you can decide whether to invest your time.

X : What I need are case studies.
Me : Ah, the 67% of generals problem.
X : I don't understand?
Me : You're looking for confirmation from others that mapping will help you. I understand.
X : Will you send me case studies?
Me : No.

X : Why not?
Me : Has anyone ever sent you a case study which says "don't use this thing".
X : No. It wouldn't be very persuasive.
Me : Well, I'm not trying to persuade. Others will and are spreading mapping because they find it useful. That's good enough for me.