Stakeholder Analysis

A structured process used to identify and understand business stakeholders at the program and portfolio levels.

Key Points

  • Determines who the business stakeholders are across programs and the broader portfolio.
  • Assesses stakeholder interest, influence, impact, and expectations to guide engagement.
  • Produces a stakeholder register and informs the stakeholder engagement and communication approaches.
  • Conducted early and revisited regularly as programs and portfolio priorities evolve.

Example

A company launches a multi-year digital transformation portfolio with several programs. The portfolio team performs stakeholder analysis to identify executives, product leaders, regulators, operations, customers, and vendors, then maps their influence and information needs to shape engagement and governance.

PMP Example Question

When a new portfolio is initiated that groups several related programs, what should the manager do first to align expectations and plan communications?

  1. Perform stakeholder analysis to identify and assess stakeholders across programs and the portfolio.
  2. Develop detailed schedules for each component project.
  3. Finalize all procurement contracts before stakeholder engagement begins.
  4. Conduct a lessons learned session from prior projects.

Correct Answer: A — Stakeholder analysis

Explanation: Stakeholder analysis identifies business stakeholders at the program and portfolio levels and informs how to engage them effectively.

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