How are project stakeholders classified?

Project stakeholders are classified based on their influence and interest in the project, which is precisely captured in the classification of primary, secondary, and tertiary stakeholders. Primary stakeholders are those who are directly impacted by the project and have a significant interest in its outcome, such as project sponsors or end-users. Secondary stakeholders, while not directly impacted, still have an interest or involvement, such as suppliers or community members. Tertiary stakeholders may have a more indirect interest, such as regulatory bodies or industry analysts.

This framework allows project managers to tailor communication and engagement strategies based on the level of interest and influence each group has in the project. By understanding where stakeholders fall within these categories, project managers can prioritize their efforts, ensuring that the most critical stakeholders are supported and that their needs and concerns are addressed effectively throughout the project's lifecycle. This classification not only enhances stakeholder management but also helps in mitigating risks by engaging those who might significantly influence project success or failure.