Exam code:7131
Stakeholder power and interest
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Stakeholder mapping is a strategic process used to identify and analyse individuals or groups that have an interest in a project or business
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It takes into account the level of interest and degree of power they hold
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It helps a business identify appropriate strategies for managing relationships with stakeholders
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Stakeholder mapping

Diagram analysis
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Group A stakeholders have low interest and little power
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The needs of these stakeholders can usually be ignored
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However, the growth of social media means that the concerns of this group can be amplified more successfully than ever before
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Group B stakeholders have high interest but little power
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This group needs to be kept informed to give them a sense of belonging and encourage their support
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Little effort is usually required to achieve this — a newsletter or informative website may be enough
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E.g. the local community
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Group C stakeholders have low interest but are powerful
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Satisfying this influential group is important
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These stakeholders must feel included, and their power must be acknowledged
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E.g. the media. Businesses in certain sectors make great public relations efforts to keep the media “onside” through press conferences and media events
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Group D stakeholders have both high interest and a high degree of power
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These are key players — they must be fully informed and satisfied
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E.g. shareholders and employees
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Case Study
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In April 2025, a multi-billion pound investment in a major new Universal theme park and resort in Bedford was announced
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The project has to juggle very different stakeholder needs during the planning and construction phase
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Mapping each stakeholder by interest and power shows how managers can handle them
Group A: Minimal effort (low power / low interest)
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Stakeholder |
Why they sit here |
Management tactics |
|---|---|---|
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Potential visitors who live far from Bedford |
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Group B: Keep informed (high interest / low power)
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Stakeholder |
Evidence of high interest |
Management tactics |
|---|---|---|
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Residents of nearby Stewartby, Lidlington and Kempston Hardwick |
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Small local businesses (e.g. cafes, B&Bs) |
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Group C: Keep satisfied (low interest / high power)
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Stakeholder |
Evidence of high power |
Management tactics |
|---|---|---|
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National media |
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Lenders |
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Group D: Key players (high interest / high power)
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Stakeholder |
Evidence of power and interest |
Management tactics |
|---|---|---|
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Bedford Borough Council |
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UK government |
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Key construction and rail upgrade contractors |
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Responses