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Evolution Axis

The evolution axis is a core concept in Wardley Maps, representing how components evolve from left to right through four main stages: Genesis, Custom Built, Product, and Commodity. This axis helps visualize and understand the maturity and predictability of components in your map.

Understanding Evolution

  • Movement is generally left to right: Components naturally evolve from genesis toward commodity over time
  • Position is relative: The exact position depends on your context and timescale
  • Evolution can vary: Different industries or contexts may evolve at different rates
  • Commoditization: Movement toward commodity status often leads to standardization and cost reduction
tip

Use the evolution axis to challenge assumptions about component maturity and plan for future changes in your landscape.

Evolution Stage Variations

Different types of components may use different evolution terminology depending on their nature. Here are the common variations:

Activities

evolution Genesis->Custom->Product->Commodity

Practices

evolution Novel->Emerging->Good->Best

Data

evolution Unmodelled->Divergent->Convergent->Modelled

Knowledge

evolution Concept->Hypothesis->Theory->Accepted

Syntax and Usage

You can customize the evolution labels in your map:

evolution Genesis->Custom->Product->Commodity

Mix & Match

You can mix and match these terms based on what you're mapping. For example:

# For a technology-focused map
evolution Novel->Custom->Product->Commodity

# For a data-centric map
evolution Unmodelled->Divergent->Convergent->Modelled

# For a research/knowledge map
evolution Concept->Hypothesis->Theory->Accepted

Using Emoji in Evolution Labels

You can use emoji to make evolution stages more visually distinctive:

evolution 🧪 Genesis -> ⚒️ Custom -> 🛒 Product -> ⛽ Commodity

Evolving Components

Components can move along the evolution axis as they mature. Use the evolve syntax to show this movement:

# Move a component to a new evolution position
evolve ComponentName 0.8

# Move and rename a component
evolve OldName->NewName 0.8

Example

component Physical Space [0.91, 0.46]
evolve Physical Space->Virtual Space 0.8