Stakeholder Classification
Stakeholder classification is the process of categorizing stakeholders based on shared attributes such as power, interest, influence, impact, urgency, or legitimacy to determine appropriate engagement strategies.
Explanation
Stakeholder classification is a key step within stakeholder analysis. It uses various models and frameworks to sort stakeholders into groups that require similar management approaches. Common classification schemes include internal versus external, supportive versus resistant, and classifications based on the various grid models and the salience model.
Classification helps the project manager allocate limited time and resources effectively. Rather than treating every stakeholder identically, classification enables tailored engagement strategies. For example, high-power stakeholders who are resistant require different approaches than low-power stakeholders who are supportive.
Classification results are documented in the stakeholder register and used as input for the stakeholder engagement plan. The classification should be treated as dynamic, as stakeholders may shift categories as the project evolves. Regular reassessment ensures strategies remain appropriate.
Key Points
- •Groups stakeholders by shared attributes for efficient management
- •Uses models like power/interest grid, salience model, and engagement assessment matrix
- •Results are recorded in the stakeholder register
- •Classification is dynamic and should be reassessed regularly
Exam Tip
The exam may present a scenario and ask which classification model is best. Match the attributes described in the question to the model that uses those exact dimensions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Topics
Stakeholder Analysis
Stakeholder analysis is a technique for systematically gathering and analyzing quantitative and qualitative information to determine whose interests should be taken into account throughout the project.
Internal Stakeholders
Internal stakeholders are individuals or groups within the performing organization who are directly affected by or involved in the project, such as the project sponsor, project manager, team members, and functional managers.
External Stakeholders
External stakeholders are individuals or groups outside the performing organization who are affected by or can influence the project, such as customers, suppliers, regulatory bodies, and the public.
Salience Model
The salience model classifies stakeholders based on three attributes: their power (ability to impose their will), legitimacy (appropriateness of their involvement), and urgency (need for immediate attention).
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Stakeholder Mapping
Stakeholder mapping is the visual representation of stakeholder relationships, influence, interest, or other attributes using grids, matrices, or diagrams to support analysis and engagement planning.
Power/Influence Grid
The power/influence grid is a stakeholder classification model that groups stakeholders based on their level of authority (power) and their active involvement or ability to affect the project (influence).
Stakeholder Analysis
Stakeholder analysis is a technique for systematically gathering and analyzing quantitative and qualitative information to determine whose interests should be taken into account throughout the project.
Burndown Chart
A Burndown Chart is a graphical representation of work remaining versus time in a Sprint or release, showing whether the team is on track to complete the planned work.
Resource Leveling
Resource leveling is a resource optimization technique in which adjustments are made to the project schedule to keep resource usage at or below a defined limit, often resulting in a longer project duration.
Risk Register
The risk register is a project document that records the details of individual project risks, including their identification, analysis results, response plans, and current status.
Relative Estimation
Relative Estimation is an agile technique where work items are sized in comparison to each other rather than in absolute units like hours or days, providing faster and more accurate estimates.
Cost Performance Index (CPI)
Cost Performance Index (CPI) is an EVM efficiency metric that measures cost performance as the ratio of earned value to actual cost: CPI = EV / AC.
Schedule Performance Index (SPI)
Schedule Performance Index (SPI) is an EVM efficiency metric that measures schedule performance as the ratio of earned value to planned value: SPI = EV / PV.
Part of
Stakeholder Management
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