What are the common sources of conflict and issues among project stakeholders?

2 Assess stakeholders

The next step in stakeholder analysis is to assess the stakeholders' current and desired level of engagement, their power and interest, and their attitude and behavior. You can use various tools and techniques, such as the stakeholder engagement assessment matrix, the power-interest grid, the salience model, and the stakeholder cube. These tools can help you to categorize and prioritize your stakeholders, and to plan your communication and engagement strategies accordingly. You should also update your stakeholder register with the relevant information and analysis.

3 Engage stakeholders

The third step in stakeholder analysis is to engage your stakeholders throughout the project lifecycle. You should communicate with them regularly, provide them with relevant information, solicit their feedback, and address their concerns. You should also involve them in decision making, problem solving, and risk management, as appropriate. You should tailor your engagement approach based on the stakeholder's level of interest and influence, and their expectations and needs. You should also monitor and measure the effectiveness of your engagement activities, and adjust them as needed.

4 Resolve issues

The fourth step in stakeholder analysis is to resolve any issues that may arise among different stakeholders. Issues can be caused by conflicting interests, expectations, opinions, or perspectives. They can also be related to the project scope, quality, cost, schedule, or risks. You should use your communication, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills to address the issues and find a mutually acceptable solution. You should also document the issues and their resolution, and update your project plan and stakeholder register accordingly.

5 Manage changes

The fifth step in stakeholder analysis is to manage any changes that may affect the project or the stakeholders. Changes can be requested by the stakeholders, or initiated by the project team, the sponsor, or the environment. You should follow a change management process that includes identifying, evaluating, approving, and implementing the changes. You should also communicate the changes and their impact to the relevant stakeholders, and update your project plan and stakeholder register accordingly.

6 Evaluate stakeholder satisfaction

The sixth and final step in stakeholder analysis is to evaluate the stakeholder satisfaction at the end of the project. You should collect feedback from the stakeholders, using surveys, interviews, focus groups, or other methods. You should also compare the actual project outcome with the stakeholder expectations and needs, and identify any gaps or discrepancies. You should also document the lessons learned, best practices, and recommendations for future projects. You should also thank and acknowledge the stakeholders for their contribution and support.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?