Constructing a Needs Map

The Needs Map

This is the blank map on which to record the needs of  the community. The problems and deficiencies that come up in a workshop brainstorm can be loosely divided into three groups: People and Practices Local Associations and Institutions Business and Physical Resources

Click here to access a blank map sheet

A Needs Map for a Rural Community in Asia

Needs in a rural community

Victims and handouts

Every community can generate a long list of needs and problems. This figure shows only a few. As more needs are added it is easy to start feeling like a victim and demanding handouts to help address problems.

But is victimhood a good starting point for innovative thinking?

As a reflection exercise compare the mood of a workshop after conducting a needs mapping and after conducting an assets mapping and discuss the difference.