Instrumental Approach for a More Effective Management of Project Stakeholders

Abstract

Stakeholders play a critical role in determining whether a project succeeds or fails. This essay suggests a method for more efficient project management that takes into account the political implications of the project. It asks four main questions, using a theoretical context and two real-life examples, to help define, evaluate, involve, and manage stakeholders on a continuous basis. This methodical approach reflects on stakeholder profiles and the contrast between their declared views and their true interests. This enables improved control of current partners, as well as the addition of new ones if necessary, and improvements in the project's political sense. The project can be co-produced by taking partners on board and acting on their true - but sometimes secret - needs, resulting in a "win-win" scenario for everyone.