engaging stakeholders
Step 5
introduction
Stakeholders can be defined as individuals, groups, and organizations who affect or are affected by the implementation of an initiative or intervention, and can take the form of community members, groups, political leaders, and non-governmental entities. Incorporating recommendations from stakeholders in the early stages of planning, as opposed to later consultation of related parties or no consultation at all, results in initiatives that are more effective and reduces harm in practice. Stakeholder information can reduce potential harm, mitigate negative externalities associated with implementation, and provide a solution to the limitations of knowledge that field workers face.
value added of stakeholder engagement
While in-depth qualitative research is highly valuable for assessing how initiatives affect individuals, it is not always possible for field workers to engage in long-term empirical research. In addition to reducing extensive and time-consuming research, stakeholders provide context that enable solutions to be more effective in the community. The consideration of stakeholder information prior to the planning process can mitigate unforeseen events and improve the likely effectiveness of an intervention.
Choosing and discerning partners
Partnerships are carefully designed, shared projects. They have clear agreements between partners, specific goals, and mutual accountability. The following framework will assist you in determining which organizations are a good match for your efforts.
characteristic
explanation
alignment high/medium/low
evidence
Passion
Leader or founders’ story shows compassion for beneficiary group.
Clear 100% commitment to their work and what they believe in.
We can share in this commitment and there is strong overlap with our passion.
Mandate
Their story shows a clear mandate for what they are doing.
Achievements show that they are doing good work.
Integrity and Honesty in Principles
References from someone we know and trust testify to their integrity.
They are both respected by and show respect to others in their sector.
Resilience when things get tough.
Good attitude towards money.
Ability to communicate honestly and openly.
Values
Their work, website, and documents all show evidence of shared values.
Values are evident in their practices.
Leadership
Leaders are capable and committed to the partnership.
Leader listens well to others and follows through in commitments.
Good communicators and team players.
Capable staff group.
Proven Track Record
They can show evidence of what they have achieved in the past and it is enough to indicate that they have the ability to contribute their part to the collaboration.
Good track record.
Experienced and reliable in the development of projects related to the focus of partnership.
Legitimacy within the community and strong relationships.
Vision and Mission
Strong overlap with mission, vision, and strategy.
This overlap presents clear opportunities for collaboration.
Clear benefits for both organizations to work together.
Long-term vision and mission aligns well.
Capacity and Capability
They have the time and capacity to work on our partnerships and projects.
Skills and competencies complement those of our group.
Ability to perform well.
Sustainability and Financial Stability
The group has other partners.
Record of financial stability and reliability.
Successfully mobilizes and manages resources.
Has been running for more than five years.
Is currently able to fund and support its projects.
Has access to relevant information, resources, and experience.
Governance
The group has clear accountability structures.
Sound management and governance structures.
Mutual Benefit
A mutual benefit to partnership is identified.
This group will have something to contribute, but will also benefit in return.