EI-201b · Module 1

Coverage Mapping

3 min read

Coverage mapping reveals the gaps in your source network. Create a matrix with ecosystem actor categories as rows (model providers, cloud vendors, regulators, open-source communities, chip manufacturers) and signal types as columns (capability, market, regulatory, structural). For each cell, list the sources that cover it. Empty cells are blind spots. Cells with only one source are single points of failure. A healthy source network has at least two independent sources for every critical cell in the coverage matrix.

Do This

  • Review coverage matrix quarterly — actor categories and signal types evolve as the ecosystem changes
  • Ensure every critical cell has at least two independent sources — single-source dependence creates blind spots
  • Prioritize filling gaps in cells where your strategic dependencies are highest
  • Document why certain cells are intentionally left uncovered — not every actor category is relevant to every organization

Avoid This

  • Assume your current sources cover everything because you haven't missed anything yet — survivorship bias
  • Fill gaps by adding more aggregation sources — a gap in primary sources requires a primary source
  • Treat the coverage matrix as a one-time exercise — ecosystem actors enter and exit constantly

The coverage map also reveals redundancy — cells with five or more sources. Redundancy is not waste if the sources are independent. If three of your five sources for a cell are all citing the same primary source, your effective coverage is two, not five. Test for true independence by checking whether sources are reporting original observations or re-reporting someone else's work.