Hi Friend

Often the metaphors in business story maps are based in adventure:  “obstacles” are placed in mountain crevasses or on a steep cliff face, and the “vision of success” is the tallest peak, or – in a sailing metaphor – on the distant horizon.

But when the content is about diversity, equity and inclusion, these linear metaphors don’t work. They imply an end goal or finish line, when the work is continual. Also, not everyone can relate to the idea of mountain climbing or sailing the high seas!

This project was for a non profit which provides early learning for families with children aged 0 to 5, with a goal of closing the opportunity gap. They do research, policy and advocacy work, and also provide early learning programs.

In brainstorming together, we  came up with using the playground as the perfect metaphor to show the continual learning and growth needed for their internal work of Advancing Racial Equity (ARE). We even modeled the elements on what they have in their own playgrounds.

• The Strengths area is in the play structure, to reinforce the steady, secure nature of their advantages.
• The Growth area consists of gardening plots, because they require consistent weeding and nurturance.
• The  Obstacles are in a natural play area, with rocks and logs to clamber over, balance on, or hide inside...
• The Must Haves are the entry stepping stones; the needed success factors in this learning environment.

How might you stretch your thinking on metaphors to find ones that are more in tune with your audience, and with the processes they’re involved in? 

Warmly,
Emily