The Wooden Dummy translates the movements and positions in the forms into textbook/root applications. Wing Chun practitioners understand that the forms teach position and movement. The wooden dummy is a transitional tool between the forms and the actual application of techniques used in fighting.
The Wooden dummy teaches 108 root applications. This does not mean that there are only 108 applications in the Wing Chun system. It merely means that the 108 applications taught through use of the wooden dummy are root or base applications out of which all others are derived. It is virtually impossible to move from the beginner to intermediate stages of Wing Chun without understanding and mastering the wooden dummy. The Wooden dummy is not just another form. It is an important tool and a stepping stone from form to application.