Stakeholder Engagement Assessment Matrix: Current vs Desired Levels

PMBOK v8 Definition

The Stakeholder Engagement Assessment Matrix is a matrix that compares current and desired stakeholder engagement levels. In this matrix, "C" represents the current engagement level of each stakeholder and "D" indicates the level that the project team has assessed as essential to ensure project success (desired). The gap between current and desired for each stakeholder directs the level of communications necessary to effectively engage the stakeholder. Closing this gap between current and desired is an essential element of monitoring stakeholder engagement.

Why It Matters for the Exam

This concept appears frequently in PMI exam questions related to the Stakeholders Performance Domain, specifically in "Plan Stakeholder Engagement" and "Monitor Stakeholder Engagement" processes. Expect scenario-based questions asking you to interpret the matrix, identify appropriate actions based on gaps, or recognize which engagement level a stakeholder currently exhibits.

Key Points to Remember (for the exam)

• Five Engagement Levels (classified from lowest to highest engagement):

  • Unaware: Stakeholder is unaware of the project and its potential impacts
  • Resistant: Stakeholder is aware but resistant to changes; unsupportive of work or outcomes
  • Neutral: Stakeholder is aware but neither supportive nor unsupportive
  • Supportive: Stakeholder is aware, supportive of work and outcomes
  • Leading: Stakeholder is aware and actively engaged in ensuring project success

• Matrix Purpose: Compares current (C) and desired (D) engagement levels for each stakeholder

• Gap Analysis: The difference between C and D determines the necessary communication effort

• Monitoring Essential: Closing the gap between current and desired is an essential element of monitoring stakeholder engagement

• Common Confusion: The matrix is NOT a tool for identifying stakeholders—it is used AFTER identification to plan and monitor engagement strategies

Typical PMI Exam Example

A project manager discovers through the Stakeholder Engagement Assessment Matrix that a key government regulator is currently "Resistant" (C) but needs to be "Supportive" (D) for project success. What should the project manager do first? → Analyze the gap and develop targeted communication strategies to move the stakeholder from Resistant to Supportive.

PMI Exam Traps

• Trap: Confusing "Neutral" with "Unaware"

• Reality: Unaware means no knowledge of the project; Neutral means aware but indifferent

• Trap: Assuming "Leading" is always the desired level for all stakeholders

• Reality: Desired level (D) varies by stakeholder—not all need to be Leading; some may only need to be Supportive or Neutral

• Trap: Thinking the matrix is used only once during planning

• Reality: The matrix is used iteratively to monitor progress in closing engagement gaps

• Trap: Confusing the Stakeholder Engagement Assessment Matrix with the Power/Interest Grid

• Reality: The matrix tracks engagement levels (Unaware to Leading); the grid maps power vs interest for classification

Important PMI Connections

Quick Review Questions

1. A stakeholder is aware of the project but actively opposes changes. Which engagement level does this describe?

2. In the Stakeholder Engagement Assessment Matrix, what does "D" represent?

3. What is the primary purpose of comparing current (C) and desired (D) engagement levels?

4. A stakeholder is classified as "Neutral" in the matrix. What does this mean about their awareness and support?

5. True or False: All stakeholders should have a desired engagement level of "Leading."

PMBOK v8 Reference

Section 5.23 - Stakeholder Mapping/Representation and Stakeholder Engagement Assessment Matrix (within Stakeholders Performance Domain, Section 2.32)