FOCUS-ROI Outcome Mapping

A calm way to describe what success looks like, surface real questions, and see what is needed to make it real.

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Purpose

Outcome Mapping helps you look at success before you begin.

It is a quiet conversation with the future — a way to see what “done well” means, what it needs, and how it connects back to purpose.

You start at the end, imagining a successful outcome, then work backwards to understand what must be true for it to happen.

Once the map feels clear, you move forward again through the FOCUS-ROI loop to make it real.

“We don’t predict the future.
We make it visible enough to plan it with care.”

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How it fits in FOCUS-ROI

Outcome Mapping sits before the normal FOCUS-ROI loop.

It reverses the movement to begin with Execute — the vision of success — and traces backward through Validate, Shape, and Clarify.

When the map is complete, the regular FOCUS-ROI flow takes over:

Explore → Clarify → Shape → Validate → Execute

You can also use:

• 3D Root Cause Mapping to dig into assumptions
• 4C Tool to sense clarity and stability

if deeper exploration is needed along the way.

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The four pillars in reverse

Each reverse stage draws strength from two of the FOCUS-ROI pillars.

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The reverse loop

You move backwards through four reflective questions:

• Execute → What does success look and feel like?
• Validate → What would prove we’ve achieved it?
• Shape → What must exist for that to happen?
• Clarify → Why does this matter, and what have we learned already?

Then you move forward again with the normal FOCUS-ROI flow to bring it to life.

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How to use on a whiteboard

Use a whiteboard or wall.
Divide it into four columns: Execute, Validate, Shape, Clarify.

Start on the right and move left.

Step 1 — Start with the desired outcome (Execute)

Write a simple, clear description of what success looks like.
Describe it as if it has already happened.

Example:
“Customers complete sign-up in under two minutes, with 95% satisfaction.”

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Step 2 — Identify what proves it (Validate)

Ask: What would we need to see, hear, or measure to know this is true?

List signals — both data and human feedback.

Example:
“Fewer help-desk tickets, positive user comments, completion metrics above 90%.”

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Step 3 — Map what enables it (Shape)

Ask: What must be in place for this to work?

Break it down into processes, tools, people, or knowledge.

Example:
“Single sign-on flow, clearer error messages, faster database queries.”

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Step 4 — Clarify the reasoning (Clarify)

Ask: Why does this matter? What do we already know?

Surface insights, risks, and earlier learning.

Example:
“This reduces frustration for new users and lowers support costs.”

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Optional deepening

If parts of the map feel vague or uncertain:

• Use 3D Root Cause Mapping to dig beneath assumptions
• Use the 4C Tool to understand clarity and stability

The goal is shared understanding, not a promise of delivery.

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Seeing the whole map

When all four columns are filled, step back and read the flow from right to left.

You should see a story of how success happens — not just a list of tasks.

When you are ready to act, read it left to right again.
Now it becomes your roadmap through the FOCUS-ROI stages.

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Examples in use

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Reflection prompts

After mapping, ask together:

• What feels certain? What still feels unclear?
• Which assumptions need validation before action?
• Where do we already see signals of progress?
• How does this connect back to purpose?

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Make it yours

Translate the intent, not just the wording.

Rename stages if needed, but keep the reverse-then-forward rhythm.

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Remember

Start at the end.
Picture success before you build it.

Work backwards with care.
Then move forward with focus.

FOCUS-ROI Outcome Mapping
A calm way to see success in reverse, so you can move forward with purpose.