ANSWER

Stakeholder analysis involves identification of individuals and organizations that have some form of stake or interest in the project outcomes, and assessing the particular needs of each stakeholder group. The stakeholder needs assessment is conducted early in the project, so that steps can be taken to effectively manage their interests and expectations throughout the project.

Information contained in the needs assessment helps the project team engage stakeholders, and supports planning and execution of project communications.

When conducting a stakeholder needs assessment, questions such as the following are answered:

• Who are the project stakeholders?

• What challenges or barriers does each stakeholder currently face?

• What improvements or benefits does each stakeholder group wish to achieve through this project?

• How clearly do the project goals and objectives address each stakeholder’s needs?

• What information does each stakeholder need or expect to receive?

• What communication channels can reach each stakeholder most effectively?

• Is the stakeholder supportive, oppositional or neutral towards the project?

• How much power does the stakeholder have to sway others in the organization towards their own position?

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Sandy Lambert
Business Architect
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