For any project, it is important to generate a wide base of support from stakeholders. Identifying what types of stakeholders are affected by your project is key to a successful project. Each of your stakeholders should be classified in one of four categories.
Low power/low interest stakeholders are only indirectly affected by your project. Information needs to be available to them but active involvement is not necessary. Low power/high interest stakeholders care deeply about your project’s outcome. As such, they need to be actively informed. It is important to show them consideration as you move forward. Your high power/low interest stakeholders may not be particularly interested in your project but it is important to keep them informed, as they do have power over your project’s success. Try your best to keep these stakeholders satisfied so they do not use their power to negatively impact your project. Lastly, high power/high interest stakeholders are the most important as they have the biggest impact on your project. Engage with them regularly and work to maintain a positive relationship. They will need to have the opportunity to provide direct input into the project and may be involved in key decision-making.
Download this grid and divide up your project’s stakeholders into each box. From there, assess how to move forward with your stakeholder relationships.
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