However, when the territory is constantly changing, when the markets are constantly shifting, any map is soon obsolete. A Compass for the Times In today's world, what's needed is a compass. A compass consists of a magnetic needle swinging freely and pointing to magnetic north. It's also a mariner's instrument for directing or ascertaining the course of ships at sea as well as an instrument for drawing circles and taking measurements. All of these connotations enrich the meaning of the metaphor.
Inaccurate maps are a frustration for people who are trying to find their way or navigate territory.
Many executives are pioneering, managing in uncharted waters or wilderness, and no existing map accurately describes the territory. The map provides description, but the compass provides more vision and direction. An accurate map is a good management tool, but a compass is a leadership and an empowerment tool. People who have been using maps for many years to find their way and maintain a sense of perspective and direction should realize that their maps may be useless in the current maze and wilderness of management. My recommendation is that you exchange your map for a compass and train yourself and your people how to navigate by a compass calibrated to a set of fixed, true north principles and natural laws.