1-3.1 Prioritize and Understand Stakeholders

After identifying the key stakeholders, perform a stakeholder mapping exercise, using the Influence/impact Matrix illustrated in Figure 1.3.

Figure 1.3

Influence/impact Matrix for Stakeholder Prioritization

Classify key stakeholders by the extent to which they can influence the project and the degree to which it will/may affect them. A stakeholder’s position on the grid illustrates particular actions that may be taken when interacting with him or her:

• High-influence, high-impact individuals — Significant efforts should be made to satisfy this group.
• High-influence, low-impact individuals — Effort should be made to keep this group satisfied, but on a more limited basis than the high-impact group.
• Low-influence, high-impact individuals — This group is adequately informed, and close communication is stressed to ensure that major issues are addressed.
• Low-influence, low-impact individuals — Monitor members of this group for consideration and consultation.

Stakeholder analysis will be critical in communicating with key stakeholders throughout the project life cycle. It will also be the foundation for developing the communication plan, which is discussed in the Prepare Project task of USPS Supplying Practices Process Step 2: Evaluate Sources.