Who is considered a stakeholder in a project?

A stakeholder in a project is someone who is impacted by the outcomes of that project, making the identification of stakeholders crucial for effective project management. This includes individuals or groups who can affect or are affected by the project, whether directly through their involvement or indirectly through the consequences of the project's results.

Recognizing individuals as stakeholders acknowledges that they have a vested interest in the project, which can influence their expectations, motivations, or concerns. Effective communication and engagement with stakeholders play a vital role in the success of a project, as their support or opposition can significantly impact progression and outcomes.

In contrast, those not impacted by the project outcomes, such as individuals who are completely detached from the goals, changes, or results, do not qualify as stakeholders. The project manager and team members also fall under the broader category of stakeholders, but the term, as used in this context, primarily emphasizes the importance of being impacted by the project's outcomes.