What is the primary aim of stakeholder mapping?

The primary aim of stakeholder mapping is to identify stakeholders and their influences. This process involves understanding who the stakeholders are, what their interests and power dynamics are, and how they can impact the project. By accurately mapping stakeholders, project managers can develop effective strategies for communication and engagement, ensuring that stakeholder needs and expectations are considered throughout the project lifecycle. This active engagement helps to mitigate risks and enhances the chances of project success by fostering collaboration and support from key individuals or groups.

While outlining project timelines, defining the project budget, and creating a marketing strategy are all important aspects of project management, they do not directly relate to the process of stakeholder mapping. Stakeholder mapping specifically focuses on recognizing the people and organizations involved and understanding their influence on the project’s outcomes.