Stakeholder mapping

CAPACITY BUILDING TOOLKIT FOR CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANIZATIONS - Module 1

Stakeholder mapping is a tool that helps identify the most important actors, understand how they are connected, and determine how to collaborate effectively with them to achieve the desired goals.

What is it used for?

To see the patterns/structure of complex systems composed of multiple institutions (actors)
To understand the dynamics, power relations, and modalities of relationships between the examined actors
To determine the position of a specific actor in a specific matter
To identify the actors we want to involve in a project or engage with
To measure the impact of our activities (program, service, communication)

Dimension of the analyis

(Stakeholders can be analyzed according to the following)

Their importance (relevance) in a specific matter
Their level of involvement/interest
Proximity/distance
Impact/influence (bargaining power)
The modality of the relationship (positive/negative)
What is the focus?
A matter/problem
An activity
A social group
An actor (organization, group, individual)

Steps of the analysis

Defining the general objective (change)
Identifying/collecting the stakeholders
Determining their relative position
Placing them in the matrix
Defining interventions/actions for each subgroup in the matrix

Exercise

Step One: Defining the General Objective

With this task, your goal is to define a general objective for your organization based on the above. You can choose a current problem or challenge that your organization is facing. This could be, for example: Helping a specific client. Difficulties with the legal environment. Any other important goal that promotes the development of the organization.

How to work on this step?

Reflection: Consider what problems or opportunities you see within the organization.
Research: If necessary, conduct research or gather data about the problem.
Objective: Clearly and specifically formulate the objective. The goal should be measurable and achievable, and align with the organization’s long-term strategy.

Step Two: Defining Dimensions and Stakeholders

Consider the following:

Who are the key stakeholders (e.g., employees, clients, partners) with whom you need to collaborate to achieve the objective?

How to work on this step?

Identifying Dimensions: List the areas necessary for achieving the goal.
Identifying Key Stakeholders: Name individuals or groups that have an impact on the goal or with whom you need to work.
Defining Relationships: Plan how you will communicate and collaborate with these stakeholders.

Step three: Planning

Now that you have defined the goal, necessary areas, and key stakeholders, plan how you will work towards the set objective. It is up to you how you apply the goal-setting in practice.

How to work on this step?

Creating an Action Plan: Prepare a detailed action plan that includes the next steps, deadlines, and responsibilities.
Setting Priorities: Establish a ranking of tasks and determine what requires immediate attention.
Planning Resources: Consider what resources you will need (e.g., time, money, human resources).

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