Create and compare an “Is Map” vs. a “Should Map.”

[Muhammad Hasan]

IS Map – A visual or conceptual representation of how things currently are.
Should Map – A visual or conceptual representation of how things should ideally be.

[Jade Dawson]

“Is Map” (Current State Map)
Purpose To describe the current reality—what is happening now.
Focus Facts, observable behaviors, existing processes, current relationships, and outcomes.
Tone Neutral, descriptive, objective.
Data Sources Observations, interviews, metrics, reports, stakeholder feedback.
Usefulness Helps identify gaps, inefficiencies, or misalignments in the current system.
Example “Team meetings are often dominated by two voices, with little input from others.”

“Should Map” (Future State Map)
Purpose To envision the ideal or desired future state—what should be happening.
Focus Aspirations, values, goals, improved processes, and ideal behaviors.
Tone Normative, aspirational, sometimes visionary.
Data Sources Strategic goals, stakeholder aspirations, best practices, values alignment.
Usefulness Guides change efforts, sets direction, and defines success.
Example “Team meetings should encourage equal participation and diverse perspectives.”

Comparison Summary
Aspect “Is Map” “Should Map”
Time Orientation Present Future
Nature Descriptive Prescriptive
Goal Understand reality Define ideal
Role in Change Diagnosis Vision

[Justin Murray]

Is Map: A long, manual onboarding process for new employees,
Should Map: An automated, digital onboarding process with self-service options

[Cathy Gilham]

Is Map reflects what we do currently and Should Map reflects what it will be once enhancements are implemented.

[Wilmar Santos]

MGPP – Multi_Generational Process Planning

[Joan Trax]

in map, what is happening currently
Should Map need to happen

[Gins Campos]

Is Map – is the current, while Should map – is the future

[Author]

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