What is Power Map?

Power mapping is a visual and strategic tool used to identify key decision-makers, analyze relationship dynamics, and understand who holds influence over a specific goal or issue.

Key Elements of Power Mapping

• Decision-Makers (Targets): The specific individuals or authorities who hold the actual power to grant, block, or change a decision.
• Influence Levels: A ranking or assessment of how much impact a stakeholder has over the target or the final outcome (high vs. low influence).
• Interests and Motivations: What each stakeholder cares about, what drives their actions, and what they stand to gain or lose.
• Positionality (With Us vs. Against Us): Where actors stand regarding your cause—ranging from active allies and champions to neutral parties and active blockers/opposition.
• Positional vs. Relational Power: A distinction between formal authority (job titles, official rank) and informal influence (trust, community respect, access to resources, or bridge roles).
• Relationship Networks and Alliances: The lines of connection, communication, and trust between different stakeholders that show who can influence whom.