Thread by @swardley

X : How do you place something on the value chain in a Wardley map?
Me : The chain is actually a chain of needs, this needs that, a partial ordered list. The y-axis is pure scaffolding, to help people get started with mapping ... nothing more. The only "real" axis is the x-axis.

... I only keep the y axis because it helps people getting started and it has become habit. Once you get used to mapping, you can dump the y axis ... you don't need it other than a reminder of lower order systems create higher order systems.

X : Where did the y-axis come from?
Me : My early maps didn't have a y-axis. I only included it because people kept on asking "what's the y axis" and couldn't seem to cope with the idea of position described through a chain of needs ...

... it's the same with anchor. Each node is in fact an anchor for its own map. A map contains many anchors. Just to begin with, stick user at the top of the map. With practice you can drop these ... well, training wheels ... start by adding many users e.g. consumer, gov, biz etc.

... it's like the labels for stage I to IV of evolution (I tend to use activities ... genesis, custom etc). These are just labels for evolving stages of capital and the map simply represents evolving capital.

However, if you start by saying that this is a map of evolving capital through a chain of needs containing many anchors ... novices get very confused. So, you use the scaffolding to help people get started.

X : Is there more to learn on mapping than the book?
Me : The book is not complete and even when done will only barely scratch the surface. I've tried to keep things simple, to provide a path.

X : When will you complete the book?
Me : When I find time.
X : How do I learn more?
Me : Practice.
X : I want to learn everything you know about mapping.
Me : Well, you better start practising then.

X : Do I have to pay you for using the maps?
Me : No. It's creative commons share alike. If you want to "pay me" then ... if you find it useful teach two others.
X : Is there certification in Wardley Maps?
Me : No. Do you really need permission to communicate?

X : How do you make money from maps?
Me : I don't. I use them in research. I teach some LEF clients. But I get a lot of value from maps especially through the merriment caused by large US consultancy "strategies" ... they often have me in stitches.