Power–Interest Grid for Stakeholder Analysis: How to Use It Effectively

What Is the Power–Interest Grid?

It is a simple yet powerful model for analyzing stakeholders. It helps project teams categorize stakeholders based on two factors:

• Power/ Inference – their ability to influence decisions or outcomes.
• Interest – their level of involvement or concern about the project.

By placing stakeholders on a 2×2 grid, you can see at a glance who to prioritize, who to keep informed, and who requires minimal effort.

The Four Quadrants Explained

Low Power – High Interest (Keep Informed)

They may not have decision-making power, but they care about outcomes. Keeping them informed prevents resistance.

Example: End-users who will adopt the new system once it is launched.

High Power – High Interest (Manage Closely)

These stakeholders can make or break your project. They need regular updates, direct involvement, and strong relationships.

Example: A project sponsor funding the initiative.

Low Power – Low Interest (Monitor)

These stakeholders require minimal effort. Provide occasional updates but do not overwhelm them.

Example: External observers or regulatory staff with minor involvement.

High Power – Low Interest (Keep Satisfied)

They have influence but may not want to be deeply involved. Keep them satisfied with concise, high-level updates.

Example: A senior executive not directly involved but whose department may be affected.

Why the Power–Interest Grid Important

• Prioritizes resources: You focus your energy on the right people.
• Reduces conflict: Engagement strategies prevent misalignment.
• Supports communication planning: Each quadrant has a clear approach.
• Improves project success: When stakeholders feel valued, cooperation increases.

How the Tool Automates This Process

Traditionally, teams sketch the grid manually. But with the Stakeholder Management Tool, the process becomes seamless:

• Add stakeholders with their power and interest levels.
• The tool automatically assigns an engagement strategy for each quadrant.
• Engagement strategies (e.g., Manage Closely, Keep Informed) are generated in real-time, so there is no guesswork.
• Results are stored alongside your communication plan, risks, and action log for easy tracking.

This automation not only saves time but ensures consistency across projects.

A stakeholder management plan is not just paperwork—it is a roadmap for building strong relationships that drive projects to success. By identifying the right people, engaging them effectively, and monitoring progress, you reduce risks and improve collaboration.

With a dedicated tool, creating and maintaining this plan becomes far easier, giving project teams the clarity and confidence to focus on execution.