MidCase studyStakeholder management
Two stakeholders want opposite things. How do you proceed?
Try answering first
Model answer
I treat it as a problem to understand, not a vote to win.
- Find the underlying needs. Ask each side why. Positions ("we need approval on every order" vs "no approval step") often hide goals (control of risk vs speed).
- Check the facts. Gather data, such as how many orders are risky and what delay costs, so the discussion moves from opinion to evidence.
- Generate options. Look for a solution that serves both goals, for example approval only above a value threshold.
- Tie it to business objectives. Compare options against the project goals and constraints.
- Decide with the right person. If they still disagree, escalate to the sponsor or decision owner with a clear summary of options, trade-offs and my recommendation.
- Document the decision and its rationale, and tell everyone.
Throughout, I stay neutral and keep each side informed.
Key points
- Separate stated positions from underlying needs
- Use data and business objectives to compare options
- Escalate to the decision owner when needed and document the outcome
Likely follow-ups
- What if the sponsor sides with one stakeholder and the other disengages?
- How do you stay neutral when you have a preferred option?
Common mistakes
- Picking the more senior stakeholder without analysis
- Splitting the difference without checking it meets either need