Strategic Mapping

Time Lining Actions to achieve your Outcome

Once you have decided on your outcome or vision the next step is planning how to make it happen.

There is an NLP tool that I call Strategic Mapping and if you follow the process through you end up with a timeline showing where you need to be, by when, if you are to achieve your outcome by your stated date. It’s a simple process and the unusual sequence of planning helps the brain to see clearly what needs to be done step by step. There are 9 steps to follow in a set sequence, this sequence may seem illogical although at the end of it you have a logical map of what you need to do/where you need to be, with the actions you need to have taken, by set dates, to achieve your aim.

Attached is a diagram showing you the order to follow to create your timeline or strategic map and the questions to ask yourself at each of the stages.

It may feel more logical to start at the beginning and work to the end, however asking yourself the “sensory acuity” questions (see, hear and feel) in the order given will give you a much clearer view of where you need to be if you are to stay on target.

I have used Strategic Mapping on many occasions when helping Board Members/Senior Managers clarify their corporate vision or achieve a major change and plan what is needed to be in place, by when, to achieve the desired result in their time frame. Each time it has worked extremely well, even when initially some of the team have felt sceptical about the process. I suppose it’s almost like an illogical route to a Critical Path Analysis with greater detail and therefore clarity on strategic events.

Whatever size of vision/outcome you have, give Strategic Mapping a go and be amazed at how much clearer the required actions become and how much easier it is to achieve your outcome.

If you have any questions on this or would like more detail or help in producing your Strategic Map then please do contact me.