PMI CAPM (Certified Associate in Project Management) Examination Content OutlineCommunication and Stakeholder ManagementMedium
A project manager is dealing with a highly influential stakeholder who consistently provides last-minute change requests, often conflicting with previously agreed-upon requirements. These changes are causing significant scope creep and team frustration. The project manager has identified this stakeholder as having high power and high interest. Which stakeholder engagement strategy should the project manager prioritize for this stakeholder?
- AKeep Informed
- BMonitor
- CManage Closely
- DKeep Satisfied
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Manage Closely
For stakeholders with high power and high interest, the 'Manage Closely' strategy is appropriate. This involves frequent, direct communication and proactive engagement to understand their needs, address concerns, and involve them in decision-making to prevent disruptive last-minute changes.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. 'Keep Informed' is for high interest, low power stakeholders, not high power.
- B. 'Monitor' is for low power, low interest stakeholders, requiring minimal effort.
- D. 'Keep Satisfied' is for high power, low interest stakeholders, aiming to prevent them from becoming disruptive.
Power/Interest Grid - Manage Closely
A stakeholder engagement strategy for stakeholders with both high power and high interest in the project, requiring frequent and close management.
- Involves direct, proactive engagement.
- Aims to make them key players and decision-makers.
- Essential for critical project success.
Memory trick: Power and Interest dictate if you manage, satisfy, keep informed, or just monitor.