A benefits map is a visual model that links a proposed change and its enabling outputs to the resulting business outcomes, measurable benefits and strategic objectives. It is used to show how value will be created, test assumptions and dependencies, align stakeholders, assign benefit ownership and define measures for tracking benefits realisation.
How to use this tool
Start with strategic objectives
Start with strategic objectives and measurable benefits.
Work backwards through outcomes
Work backwards through outcomes, enabling changes and deliverables.
Add assumptions and measures
Add assumptions, dependencies, measures, owners and timing.
Validate and track realisation
Validate the logic and use the map to track benefits realisation.
References & further reading
Origin: Benefits mapping has multiple lineages; Benefits Dependency Network is associated with John Ward and Elizabeth Daniel.
Rights: Specific published models and templates may be copyrighted.
Reference: Winter, H. (2023). The Business Analysis Handbook: Techniques to Deliver Better Business Outcomes, 2nd ed. Kogan Page. ISBN 9781398610132.