Learn how to create and use a power map, a visual tool that shows the power dynamics and opportunities for your advocacy. A power map can help you plan and execute your campaigns, build alliances, and mobilize your base.

One of my favourite tools for power mapping is the Spectrum of Allies. It's one thing to map those influencers, but taking the time to look strategically at their support levels and how you may (or may not) move them can take your campaign to new levels.

How do you leverage your power map to influence decision-makers and policy-makers?

If you are a grassroots organizer, you know that power is not static or fixed, but dynamic and relational. You also know that to create social change, you need to identify and influence the key decision-makers and policy-makers who can affect your issue or cause. But how do you do that effectively and strategically? One tool that can help you is a power map, a visual representation of the relationships and influences among the actors in your context. In this article, you will learn how to leverage your power map to plan and execute your campaigns, build alliances, and mobilize your base.

1 What is a power map?

A power map is a diagram that shows the different stakeholders involved in your issue or cause, their level of power and interest, and their connections and alliances. It helps you understand the power dynamics and the opportunities and challenges for your advocacy. A power map can be simple or complex, depending on your scope and goals. You can use a matrix, a circle, or a network to create your power map, as long as it captures the essential information.

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2 How to create a power map?

To create a power map, you need to do some research and analysis of your context and your target audience. You can use sources like media, reports, websites, social media, surveys, interviews, or focus groups to gather data. You can also consult with your allies, partners, and supporters to get their insights and perspectives. You need to answer questions like: Who are the decision-makers and policy-makers that can affect your issue or cause? How much power and interest do they have? Who are their allies and opponents? Who are the influencers and intermediaries that can sway their opinions? Who are the potential allies and partners that can support your campaign? Who are the beneficiaries and affected groups that can mobilize for your cause?

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S.M.R. Baker

Program Support Specialist at U.S. Department of State
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Creating a power map takes time based on both observing potential members as well as your own direct impression base on your direct one-on-one engagement. Members of any such org chart/map are those who always seem to be in the know or by default in any offic those by their very position require their being directly involved or who can assist in identifying who other key folks are who can assist when a problem arises.

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3 How to use a power map?

Once you have created your power map, you can use it to plan and execute your campaign strategy. Identify your primary and secondary targets that you want to influence directly or indirectly, and assess the level of support or opposition you have from each stakeholder. Develop tailored messages and tactics based on each stakeholder's interests, values, and motivations. Additionally, build alliances and coalitions with those who share your vision, leveraging their power and networks. Mobilize your base and the affected groups to amplify their voices and stories, while monitoring and evaluating your progress and impact so that you can adjust your strategy accordingly.

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4 What are the benefits of a power map?

Using a power map can help you clarify your objectives and outcomes, and align them with your theory of change. It can also help you focus your resources and efforts on the most influential stakeholders, anticipate and overcome barriers and challenges, strengthen relationships and collaborations with allies, and empower your community and constituency. This will increase your chances of success and build their capacity and leadership.

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S.M.R. Baker

Program Support Specialist at U.S. Department of State
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A power map can assist in both navigating through any organization. Professional allies and colleagues can provide both official and off-the-record support and guidance. This can be invaluable in terms of influencing others or at the very least to stay in the know about issues that may eventually require you to formally engage.

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5 What are the best practices for a power map?

A power map is a dynamic and flexible tool, so it needs to be updated and revised regularly as the context and actors may change over time. To ensure accuracy, you should be realistic and evidence-based, avoiding assumptions and biases. Additionally, it’s important to be inclusive and participatory by involving your team and stakeholders in the process. Moreover, you should be creative and adaptable, using different formats and methods to suit your needs. Finally, you should be ethical and respectful, protecting the privacy and safety of your sources and contacts.

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Nikki Hill

Partner, Core Firm. Experienced Public Affairs Leader driving social change. 2023 Canada's Most Powerful Women Top 100™ Award Winner Canadian Tire Community Impact. Advocate to eradicate period poverty.
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One of my favourite tools for power mapping is the Spectrum of Allies. It's one thing to map those influencers, but taking the time to look strategically at their support levels and how you may (or may not) move them can take your campaign to new levels.

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S.M.R. Baker

Program Support Specialist at U.S. Department of State
Report contribution
A power map is most effective when you have a mix of both official management positions and key support staff. Both categories have a strong track record of success, reliability, and institutional knowledge. But don’t be a snob, keep an eye on new folks and cultivate relationships accordingly as you never know where that person will be in five years. Check out their LinkedIn profile to find/create/build relationships...Also assist the new person when and if you can. After all, when new employees/members of any organization ask questions for assistance it proves they want to do a good job which is always a great sign about the individual and a professional relationship moving forward.

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6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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How do you leverage your power map to influence decision-makers and policy-makers?

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1 What is a power map?

2 How to create a power map?

3 How to use a power map?

4 What are the benefits of a power map?

5 What are the best practices for a power map?

6 Here’s what else to consider

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