Stakeholder & Power Mapping

Core principle: The technically correct solution fails if the wrong people oppose it, key influencers aren't engaged, or incentives are misaligned. Map the social and organizational context as carefully as the technical system.

The Core Process

Step 1: Identify All Stakeholders

Cast wide — include everyone who:

• Decides: Authority to approve, veto, or fund
• Influences: Shapes decision-makers without formal authority
• Implements: Will execute or use the outcome
• Is affected: Will experience consequences (even without a voice)
• Could block: Can slow, derail, or resist (formally or informally)

Silent stakeholders are often the most dangerous.