HKSM

A section of the project management plan that explains the approaches and specific actions to actively involve stakeholders in project or program decision making and in carrying out the work.

Key Points

• Defines strategies and action steps to secure meaningful stakeholder participation in decisions and execution.
• Tailored to stakeholder interest, influence, and desired engagement levels across the project lifecycle.
• Specifies responsibilities, communication approaches, meeting cadence, and escalation paths for engagement.
• Is a living document that is updated as stakeholder assessments and project conditions change.

Example

On an ERP implementation, the project manager documents tactics for engaging finance, operations, and IT: monthly steering committee decisions, weekly working-group sessions, targeted workshops for high-influence users before key design choices, and an escalation path to the sponsor for unresolved conflicts. As stakeholder influence shifts, the plan is revised to increase touchpoints with newly affected plant managers.

PMP Example Question

Which document describes the strategies and actions the team will use to ensure stakeholders participate effectively in project decisions and execution?

1. Stakeholder Engagement Plan
2. Project Charter
3. Communications Management Plan
4. Risk Management Plan

Correct Answer: A — Stakeholder Engagement Plan

Explanation: The stakeholder engagement plan defines how stakeholders will be engaged, including specific strategies and activities to support their involvement in decisions and implementation.