Understanding Stakeholders
Definition
Stakeholders
People or groups who are affected by or interested in a new system. This includes users, clients, developers, managers, and investors.
As stakeholders are typically a large and diverse group of people, for simplicity, we can categorise all stakeholders into distinct groups.
- End-Users: The people who will interact with the system daily.
- Developers: The team responsible for building the system.
- System Administrators: Those who will maintain and support the system.
- Business Leaders: Decision-makers who align the system with organisational goals.
Note
A stakeholder is anyone with a vested interest in a project, while an end-user is specifically the person who will use the final product.
The Role of Stakeholders in System Design
- End-Users:
- Provide insights into usability and functionality.
- Identify pain points and areas for improvement.
- Developers:
- Translate requirements into technical solutions.
- Ensure the system is feasible and scalable.
- System Administrators:
- Focus on security, reliability, and maintenance.
- Plan for system updates and troubleshooting.
- Business Leaders:
- Align the system with strategic objectives.
- Ensure the project is cost-effective and delivers value.
Analogy
- Think of stakeholders as the crew of a ship.
- Each member has a specific role, but all work together to ensure the ship reaches its destination safely and efficiently.
Hint
When identifying stakeholders, consider both direct and indirect users. This ensures a comprehensive understanding of the system's impact.
You might find it useful:
- Conducting Interviews: Speak with potential users, managers, and technical staff to gain a deeper understanding of their needs.
- Analysing Current Systems: Identify frequent users and those affected by existing system limitations.
- Consulting Experts: Seek advice from specialists who have worked on similar projects.
Ethical Considerations in Stakeholder Management
- Balancing Needs: Ensure the system meets the needs of all stakeholders, not just the most vocal ones.
- Utilitarianism: Strive for the greatest good for the majority while addressing specific needs.
Theory of Knowledge
- How do ethical frameworks like utilitarianism influence decision-making in system design?
- What challenges arise when balancing competing stakeholder interests?
- How can ethical considerations shape the way we prioritise stakeholder needs?
Self review
- Can you identify the key stakeholders in a project you're familiar with?
- How might their roles influence the system's design and implementation?
- Why is it important to involve a diverse range of stakeholders in system design?
