Design Thinking Tool: Stakeholder Value Mapping

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The Role of This Tool in the Second Phase of the Design Thinking Method

Stakeholder Value Mapping, an essential tool in the Discovering All-Rounded Information phase of the Design Thinking method, helps teams understand the value each stakeholder derives from a product, service, or process. By identifying, illustrating, and analyzing the perceived value from various stakeholder perspectives, teams can create a comprehensive picture of the problem space and potential opportunities for innovation.

Stakeholder Value Mapping exemplifies the Human-Centered approach, one of the core principles of Design Thinking. The tool places people—the stakeholders—at the center of the process, acknowledging that the value they derive or perceive is a critical component of the problem-solving process.

By focusing on understanding and mapping the value for each stakeholder, this tool encourages empathy and a deep understanding of the human factors involved. This helps ensure that solutions designed are not only innovative but also resonate with the needs, expectations, and values of the people they are created for.

Stakeholder Value Mapping also promotes inclusivity and diversity by recognizing and considering the varied value perceptions across different stakeholder groups. This can lead to solutions that are more comprehensive, equitable, and effective.


The Procedure for Using This Design Thinking Tool

Step 1: Identify Stakeholders: Begin by identifying all potential stakeholders involved in or affected by the problem or challenge. This could include end-users, employees, management, suppliers, partners, or other groups.

Step 2: Define Value For Each Stakeholder: For each stakeholder, define what “value” means to them in the context of the problem or project. This value could be benefits they derive, needs they have, challenges they face, or goals they wish to achieve.

Step 3: Map Value: Create a visual map illustrating the defined value for each stakeholder. This could be in the form of a table, chart, or other types of diagrams. The goal is to visualize the connections between different stakeholders and the value they derive or expect.

Step 4: Analyze and Prioritize: Analyze the value map to understand correlations, conflicts, or potential opportunities among stakeholder values. Prioritize areas where maximum value can be delivered to the most critical stakeholders.

Step 5: Iterate: This is not a one-time process. As you gather more information or conditions, change, revisit the map, update it, and refine your understanding of stakeholder value.


The Worksheet of This Tool

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