The 3EO Map
Map the organizational operating system across strategy, performance, and execution layers
The problem this canvas solves
Traditional org charts show reporting lines but not how work actually gets done. In a platform organization, value creation happens through complex interplays between strategy-setting, performance integration, and execution across multiple autonomous units. The 3EO Map provides a visual operating system that shows how activities are coordinated among internal and external actors at each organizational layer, revealing gaps and misalignments in the current model.
When to use it
The 3EO Map shows how the four types of leadership (architecting, enabling, entrepreneurial, ecosystemic) address the three foundational processes (strategy, execution, performance) - a compact view of the organizational operating system, revealing how activities are coordinated among internal and external actors.
The canvas
The canvas in the updated Boundaryless brand (full resolution — click to zoom). A print-ready PDF and editable SVG are also available on request.
Canvas structure
Identifying the Strategy
Continuously choosing what to do, where to allocate resources and the directions of exploration
Valorizing and Integrating Performance
Setting objectives and orchestrating how the nodes reach them together through motivation, targets, incentives and value sharing
Architecting (Center)
Which actors, mechanisms and structures let desired dynamics and outcomes emerge coherently?
Performing Execution
Distributing and coordinating effort through natural leadership, decision making, collaboration and feedback
How to use it
Map how the four leadership types (architecting, enabling, entrepreneurial, ecosystemic) address the three foundational processes (strategy, execution, performance). Map the CURRENT operating model first (use two colors), then copy the map and repeat for the 3EO-inspired future design - the as-is/to-be gap is the output.
Steps
- Strategy Layer — Define who/what drives strategic direction and external engagement
- Performance Layer — Map how objectives are set and value is shared
- Architecting — Identify the structural mechanisms that enable coherent outcomes
- Execution Layer — Detail how work gets coordinated and done
Tips
- Use as a diagnostic tool to identify gaps in current operating model
- Map both formal and informal mechanisms
- Consider how information flows between layers
- Update as organizational experiments change the structure
Connections with other canvases
Feeds into
- Micro-Enterprise Canvas — Map informs how Micro-Enterprises should be designed
- Ecosystem Micro Community Canvas — Map context helps design EMC structures
- 3EO Organizational Experiment Canvas — Map reveals areas needing experimentation
Informed by
- Envisioning Canvas — Vision shapes the map's design
- Strategy Setting Canvas — Strategic positions determine map configuration
Used in techniques
Used in pipelines
Related reading
- Building Ecosystem Organizations — Explains the three organizational layers and how they interact
- The Elements of the Platform Organization — Provides context for the map structure
Resources
- Guide reference: 3EO Toolkit User Guide - 3EO Map chapter
- License: Creative Commons Attribution - Share Alike 4.0 International
- Version: 1.0
Canvas · Part of 3EO Toolkit · v1.0