18F

18F - Stakeholder Influence Mapping

Stakeholder Influence Mapping visually represents people affecting your project's success. It positions them by power and interest. This 45-minute exercise helps teams identify who needs active engagement versus updates, potential blockers, and champions. Map stakeholders on axes like influence/interest or support/opposition. The visualization guides communication, invitations, and political navigation. Teams discover hidden influencers, coalition partners, and stakeholder risks. Update the map as relationships evolve.

Duration
45 mins
Group Size
4-8
Category
18F
Difficulty
Easy
Uncover unspoken power dynamics that impact project outcomes. Prioritize stakeholder engagement. Inform communication approaches.

  • Stakeholder influence map

  • Understanding of power dynamics

  • Strategic engagement plan

Some teams struggle with honest placement. Emphasize that accurate placement is essential for a useful map. For government work: No PRA implications. No information is collected from the public.

  1. Gather the team and a stakeholder familiar with the organization.

  2. Divide a board into a 4-section grid. Label axes as _influence_ and _interest_.

  3. List stakeholders. Organize them into quadrants based on influence and interest.

  4. Analyze quadrants to determine engagement strategy:


  • Collaborate closely with interested and influential stakeholders.

  • Keep informed those who are either influential or interested.

  • Allow self-involvement for those neither influential nor interested.


  1. Consider potential risks. Share the map carefully. It can be sensitive.

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For Facilitators

  • Review participant profiles and expectations
  • Prepare all materials and supplies
  • Test technology and room setup

For Participants

  • Complete pre-session survey
  • Review background materials
  • Prepare examples or case studies

Unlock Pre-Work Requirements

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  • Stakeholder list

  • Sticky notes

  • Markers

  • Influence/interest matrix template

Unlock Materials Required

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Stakeholder Map Template - Mural
Visual template for stakeholder influence mapping.

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