Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement
Expert-defined terms from the Executive Certificate in Future Skills for Defense Project Management course at London School of International Business. Free to read, free to share, paired with a professional course.
A3 Thinker #
An individual who is capable of thinking critically and strategically, and is able to approach complex problems from multiple angles. This term is related to analytical thinking and problem-solving. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, an A3 thinker is able to analyze complex stakeholder relationships and develop effective communication strategies. For example, an A3 thinker might use tools like stakeholder mapping to identify key stakeholders and develop targeted communication plans.
Accountability #
The responsibility of being accountable for one's actions and decisions. This term is related to transparency and ethics. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, accountability is essential for building trust with stakeholders and maintaining a positive reputation. For instance, a project manager might be held accountable for ensuring that all stakeholders are informed and engaged throughout the project lifecycle.
Action Plan #
A document that outlines the steps to be taken to achieve a specific goal or objective. This term is related to strategy and implementation. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, an action plan might include specific communication tactics and timelines for engaging with stakeholders. For example, an action plan might include a timeline for developing and disseminating a stakeholder engagement plan.
Adaptive Leadership #
A leadership style that involves being able to adapt to changing circumstances and situations. This term is related to flexibility and resilience. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, adaptive leadership is essential for navigating complex stakeholder relationships and responding to changing stakeholder needs. For instance, an adaptive leader might be able to pivot a communication strategy in response to unexpected stakeholder feedback.
Alignment #
The process of ensuring that all stakeholders are working towards the same goals and objectives. This term is related to coordination and collaboration. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, alignment is essential for ensuring that all stakeholders are informed and engaged. For example, a project manager might work to align stakeholder expectations and goals with the project's overall objectives.
Ambiguity #
A situation or context that is unclear or uncertain. This term is related to uncertainty and risk. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, ambiguity can be a challenge for stakeholders who require clear and timely information. For instance, a stakeholder might experience ambiguity if they are unsure about the project's timeline or budget.
Analysis #
The process of breaking down complex information into smaller parts in order to understand it better. This term is related to evaluation and assessment. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, analysis is essential for understanding stakeholder needs and developing effective communication strategies. For example, a stakeholder analysis might involve evaluating the needs and expectations of different stakeholder groups.
Appreciative Inquiry #
A methodology that involves focusing on the positive aspects of a situation or organization. This term is related to positivity and strengths. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, appreciative inquiry can be used to identify and build on the strengths of stakeholders and the organization. For instance, an appreciative inquiry might involve identifying the positive aspects of a stakeholder relationship and building on those strengths.
Architecture #
The structure or design of a system or organization. This term is related to framework and infrastructure. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, architecture refers to the overall structure and design of the stakeholder engagement strategy. For example, a stakeholder engagement architecture might include a framework for identifying and prioritizing stakeholders.
Assessment #
The process of evaluating or judging something. This term is related to evaluation and analysis. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, assessment is essential for evaluating the effectiveness of stakeholder engagement strategies. For instance, a stakeholder engagement assessment might involve evaluating the effectiveness of a communication plan.
Asymmetry #
A situation or context that is unequal or unbalanced. This term is related to inequality and imbalance. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, asymmetry can refer to unequal power dynamics between stakeholders. For example, a stakeholder might have more power or influence than others, creating an asymmetrical relationship.
Audience #
A group of people who are the intended recipients of a message or communication. This term is related to stakeholders and target audience. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, audience refers to the specific stakeholders who are being targeted with a communication strategy. For instance, a project manager might identify a specific audience for a stakeholder engagement plan.
Authenticity #
The quality of being genuine or real. This term is related to trust and credibility. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, authenticity is essential for building trust with stakeholders. For example, a stakeholder might perceive a communication as authentic if it is transparent and honest.
Autonomy #
The state of being independent or self-governing. This term is related to independence and self-management. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, autonomy can refer to the degree of independence that stakeholders have in making decisions. For instance, a stakeholder might have autonomy to make decisions about their level of engagement with a project.
Awareness #
The state of being informed or knowledgeable about something. This term is related to knowledge and understanding. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, awareness is essential for stakeholders who require information about a project or organization. For example, a stakeholder might require awareness about the project's timeline or budget.
Benchmarking #
The process of comparing something to a standard or best practice. This term is related to comparison and evaluation. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, benchmarking can be used to evaluate the effectiveness of stakeholder engagement strategies. For instance, a project manager might benchmark their stakeholder engagement strategy against industry best practices.
Benefits Realization #
The process of achieving the benefits or value that is expected from a project or initiative. This term is related to value and return on investment. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, benefits realization is essential for stakeholders who expect to receive benefits from a project. For example, a stakeholder might expect to receive benefits such as improved efficiency or cost savings.
Best Practice #
A method or approach that is considered to be the most effective or efficient way of doing something. This term is related to excellence and quality. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, best practices can be used to inform stakeholder engagement strategies. For instance, a project manager might use best practices for stakeholder identification and analysis.
Brainstorming #
A technique used to generate a large number of ideas or solutions to a problem. This term is related to creativity and innovation. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, brainstorming can be used to generate ideas for stakeholder engagement strategies. For example, a project team might use brainstorming to identify creative ways to engage with stakeholders.
Business Case #
A document that outlines the rationale and justification for a project or initiative. This term is related to feasibility and viability. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, a business case might include information about the expected benefits and returns on investment for stakeholders. For instance, a business case might include a cost-benefit analysis of a stakeholder engagement strategy.
Capacity Building #
The process of developing or enhancing the skills and abilities of individuals or organizations. This term is related to development and growth. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, capacity building can be used to develop the skills and abilities of stakeholders. For example, a project manager might provide training or capacity building programs for stakeholders to enhance their engagement and participation.
Change Management #
The process of planning, implementing, and sustaining change within an organization. This term is related to transformation and innovation. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, change management is essential for stakeholders who are affected by change. For instance, a stakeholder might require support and communication during a period of change.
Citizen Engagement #
The process of involving citizens in the decision-making process. This term is related to participation and involvement. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, citizen engagement is essential for stakeholders who are citizens or members of the community. For example, a project manager might engage with citizens through public meetings or town hall discussions.
Collaboration #
The process of working together with others to achieve a common goal or objective. This term is related to partnership and cooperation. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, collaboration is essential for stakeholders who require cooperation and partnership. For instance, a stakeholder might collaborate with other stakeholders to achieve a shared goal.
Communication Plan #
A document that outlines the strategy and tactics for communicating with stakeholders. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, a communication plan is essential for stakeholders who require information and engagement. For example, a communication plan might include a timeline and budget for stakeholder engagement activities.
Community Engagement #
The process of involving communities in the decision-making process. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, community engagement is essential for stakeholders who are members of the community. For instance, a project manager might engage with the community through public meetings or outreach programs.
Complexity #
A situation or context that is complicated or difficult to understand. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, complexity can be a challenge for stakeholders who require clear and timely information. For example, a stakeholder might experience complexity if they are unsure about the project's scope or timeline.
Conflict Resolution #
The process of resolving conflicts or disagreements between stakeholders. This term is related to negotiation and mediation. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, conflict resolution is essential for stakeholders who are in conflict or have differing opinions. For instance, a project manager might use conflict resolution techniques to resolve a dispute between stakeholders.
Consensus Building #
The process of building agreement or consensus among stakeholders. This term is related to collaboration and cooperation. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, consensus building is essential for stakeholders who require cooperation and partnership. For example, a stakeholder might build consensus with other stakeholders to achieve a shared goal.
Context #
The situation or environment in which something exists or occurs. This term is related to environment and circumstances. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, context is essential for understanding the needs and expectations of stakeholders. For instance, a project manager might consider the context of the project, including the social, economic, and political environment.
Core Competence #
A key or essential skill or ability that is required to achieve a specific goal or objective. This term is related to strength and capability. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, core competence refers to the essential skills and abilities required for effective stakeholder engagement. For example, a project manager might require core competencies such as communication, negotiation, and problem-solving.
Credibility #
The quality of being believable or trustworthy. This term is related to reputation and integrity. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, credibility is essential for building trust with stakeholders. For instance, a stakeholder might perceive a communication as credible if it is transparent and honest.
Crisis Communication #
The process of communicating with stakeholders during a crisis or emergency. This term is related to emergency and response. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, crisis communication is essential for stakeholders who require timely and accurate information during a crisis. For example, a project manager might develop a crisis communication plan to respond to a crisis or emergency.
Critical Thinking #
The process of analyzing and evaluating information to form a judgment or decision. This term is related to analysis and evaluation. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, critical thinking is essential for stakeholders who require informed decision-making. For instance, a stakeholder might use critical thinking to evaluate the effectiveness of a stakeholder engagement strategy.
Culture #
The values, beliefs, and practices that are shared by a group or organization. This term is related to identity and community. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, culture is essential for understanding the needs and expectations of stakeholders. For example, a project manager might consider the cultural context of the project, including the values and beliefs of the stakeholders.
Customer Engagement #
The process of involving customers in the decision-making process. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, customer engagement is essential for stakeholders who are customers or end-users. For instance, a project manager might engage with customers through feedback mechanisms or user testing.
Decision #
Making: The process of making choices or decisions based on available information. This term is related to judgment and evaluation. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, decision-making is essential for stakeholders who require informed decision-making. For example, a stakeholder might use decision-making techniques to evaluate the effectiveness of a stakeholder engagement strategy.
Deliverable #
A product or service that is produced or delivered as part of a project or initiative. This term is related to output and outcome. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, deliverables might include communication plans, stakeholder engagement strategies, or project reports. For instance, a project manager might deliver a stakeholder engagement plan as a key deliverable.
Democracy #
A system of government or decision-making that is based on the participation of citizens. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, democracy is essential for stakeholders who are citizens or members of the community. For example, a project manager might engage with citizens through democratic processes such as public meetings or town hall discussions.
Dialogue #
A conversation or discussion between two or more people. This term is related to communication and engagement. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, dialogue is essential for stakeholders who require communication and engagement. For instance, a stakeholder might engage in dialogue with other stakeholders to achieve a shared goal.
Diversity #
The state of being different or varied in terms of characteristics such as culture, gender, or age. This term is related to inclusion and equity. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, diversity is essential for stakeholders who require inclusive and equitable engagement. For example, a project manager might consider the diversity of stakeholders when developing a stakeholder engagement strategy.
Ecosystem #
A system or environment that consists of multiple components or stakeholders that interact and interdepend. This term is related to system and network. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, ecosystem refers to the complex system of stakeholders and relationships that exist within a project or organization. For instance, a project manager might consider the ecosystem of stakeholders when developing a stakeholder engagement strategy.
Effectiveness #
The degree to which something is successful or achieving its goals. This term is related to efficiency and quality. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, effectiveness is essential for stakeholders who require successful and achieving engagement. For example, a stakeholder might evaluate the effectiveness of a stakeholder engagement strategy.
Efficiency #
The degree to which something is productive or cost-effective. This term is related to productivity and value. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, efficiency is essential for stakeholders who require productive and cost-effective engagement. For instance, a project manager might evaluate the efficiency of a stakeholder engagement strategy.
Empathy #
The ability to understand and share the feelings of others. This term is related to compassion and emotional intelligence. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, empathy is essential for stakeholders who require understanding and emotional connection. For example, a stakeholder might use empathy to understand the needs and concerns of other stakeholders.
Engagement #
The process of involving or participating in an activity or decision-making process. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, engagement is essential for stakeholders who require participation and involvement. For instance, a stakeholder might engage with other stakeholders to achieve a shared goal.
Evaluation #
The process of assessing or judging the value or effectiveness of something. This term is related to analysis and assessment. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, evaluation is essential for stakeholders who require informed decision-making.
Expectation #
A belief or anticipation that something will happen or be the case. This term is related to prediction and forecast. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, expectation is essential for stakeholders who require clear and timely information. For instance, a stakeholder might have expectations about the project's timeline or budget.
External Environment #
The external or outside factors that affect an organization or project. This term is related to context and environment. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, external environment refers to the external factors that affect the project or organization, such as social, economic, or political factors. For example, a project manager might consider the external environment when developing a stakeholder engagement strategy.
Facilitation #
The process of assisting or enabling a group or organization to achieve a goal or objective. This term is related to support and enablement. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, facilitation is essential for stakeholders who require support and enablement. For instance, a stakeholder might facilitate a meeting or discussion to achieve a shared goal.
Feedback #
The information or response that is provided to someone about their performance or actions. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, feedback is essential for stakeholders who require informed decision-making. For example, a stakeholder might provide feedback on the effectiveness of a stakeholder engagement strategy.
Flexibility #
The ability to adapt or change in response to changing circumstances or situations. This term is related to adaptability and resilience. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, flexibility is essential for stakeholders who require adaptability and resilience. For instance, a stakeholder might require flexibility in response to changing project requirements or timelines.
Framework #
A structure or model that is used to organize or guide something. This term is related to structure and guideline. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, framework refers to the overall structure and design of the stakeholder engagement strategy. For example, a stakeholder engagement framework might include a set of guidelines or principles for engaging with stakeholders.
Governance #
The system or process of managing or controlling an organization or project. This term is related to leadership and management. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, governance is essential for stakeholders who require effective management and control. For instance, a project manager might consider the governance structure of the project or organization when developing a stakeholder engagement strategy.
Human Rights #
The basic or fundamental rights and freedoms that are inherent to all human beings. This term is related to dignity and justice. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, human rights are essential for stakeholders who require respect and protection of their rights. For example, a project manager might consider the human rights implications of a stakeholder engagement strategy.
Identity #
The characteristics or traits that define a person, group, or organization. This term is related to self and image. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, identity is essential for stakeholders who require understanding and recognition of their identity. For instance, a stakeholder might consider their identity when engaging with other stakeholders or developing a stakeholder engagement strategy.
Inclusion #
The process of involving or including all stakeholders in the decision-making process. This term is related to participation and equity. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, inclusion is essential for stakeholders who require inclusive and equitable engagement. For example, a project manager might consider the inclusion of diverse stakeholders when developing a stakeholder engagement strategy.
Influence #
The ability to affect or shape the thoughts, feelings, or actions of others. This term is related to power and leadership. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, influence is essential for stakeholders who require effective communication and persuasion. For instance, a stakeholder might use influence to shape the opinions or decisions of other stakeholders.
Information #
The knowledge or data that is used to inform or make decisions. This term is related to data and intelligence. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, information is essential for stakeholders who require informed decision-making. For example, a stakeholder might require information about the project's timeline or budget.
Infrastructure #
The basic or underlying systems or structures that are required to support an organization or project. This term is related to system and framework. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, infrastructure refers to the underlying systems and structures that support stakeholder engagement, such as communication channels or technology. For instance, a project manager might consider the infrastructure requirements for a stakeholder engagement strategy.
Innovation #
The process of creating or introducing new ideas, products, or services. This term is related to creativity and entrepreneurship. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, innovation is essential for stakeholders who require creative and effective solutions. For example, a stakeholder might use innovation to develop new stakeholder engagement strategies or tactics.
Integrity #
The quality of being honest or trustworthy. This term is related to ethics and morality. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, integrity is essential for stakeholders who require trust and credibility. For instance, a stakeholder might perceive a communication as having integrity if it is transparent and honest.
Internal Environment #
The internal or inside factors that affect an organization or project. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, internal environment refers to the internal factors that affect the project or organization, such as culture, leadership, or resources. For example, a project manager might consider the internal environment when developing a stakeholder engagement strategy.
Issue Management #
The process of identifying, analyzing, and responding to issues or concerns. This term is related to risk and crisis management. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, issue management is essential for stakeholders who require effective issue resolution. For instance, a stakeholder might use issue management to identify and respond to concerns or issues related to the project.
Key Performance Indicator #
A measure or metric that is used to evaluate the performance or success of an organization or project. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, key performance indicators might include metrics such as stakeholder satisfaction or engagement levels. For example, a project manager might use key performance indicators to evaluate the effectiveness of a stakeholder engagement strategy.
Leadership #
The ability to influence or guide others towards a common goal or objective. This term is related to influence and management. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, leadership is essential for stakeholders who require effective guidance and direction. For instance, a stakeholder might use leadership to guide other stakeholders towards a shared goal.
Legitimacy #
The quality of being valid or justified. This term is related to authority and credibility. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, legitimacy is essential for stakeholders who require trust and credibility. For example, a stakeholder might perceive a communication as legitimate if it is transparent and honest.
Management #
The process of planning, organizing, and controlling an organization or project. This term is related to leadership and governance. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, management is essential for stakeholders who require effective planning and control. For instance, a project manager might consider the management structure of the project or organization when developing a stakeholder engagement strategy.
Maturity Model #
A framework or structure that is used to evaluate the level or degree of maturity or development. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, a maturity model might be used to evaluate the level of stakeholder engagement or maturity of the stakeholder engagement strategy. For example, a project manager might use a maturity model to assess the effectiveness of a stakeholder engagement strategy.
Media #
The channels or vehicles that are used to communicate or disseminate information. This term is related to communication and outreach. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, media might include channels such as social media, email, or traditional media. For instance, a stakeholder might use media to communicate with other stakeholders or to disseminate information.
Methodology #
A system or approach that is used to achieve a specific goal or objective. This term is related to framework and guideline. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, methodology refers to the overall approach or framework used to engage with stakeholders. For example, a project manager might use a stakeholder engagement methodology to develop a stakeholder engagement strategy.
Metrics #
The measures or indicators that are used to evaluate the performance or success of an organization or project. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, metrics might include measures such as stakeholder satisfaction or engagement levels. For instance, a project manager might use metrics to evaluate the effectiveness of a stakeholder engagement strategy.
Mindset #
The attitude or perspective that is held by an individual or group. This term is related to culture and identity. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, mindset is essential for stakeholders who require understanding and recognition of their mindset. For example, a stakeholder might consider their mindset when engaging with other stakeholders or developing a stakeholder engagement strategy.
Network #
A group or system of individuals or organizations that are connected or interdependent. This term is related to community and ecosystem. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, network refers to the complex system of stakeholders and relationships that exist within a project or organization. For instance, a project manager might consider the network of stakeholders when developing a stakeholder engagement strategy.
Objectivity #
The quality of being unbiased or impartial. This term is related to fairness and justice. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, objectivity is essential for stakeholders who require fair and impartial decision-making. For example, a stakeholder might perceive a communication as objective if it is unbiased and impartial.
Outcome #
The result or consequence of a particular action or decision. This term is related to impact and effect. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, outcome is essential for stakeholders who require informed decision-making. For instance, a stakeholder might evaluate the outcome of a stakeholder engagement strategy.
Output #
The product or result of a particular process or activity. This term is related to deliverable and outcome. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, output might include deliverables such as communication plans or stakeholder engagement strategies. For example, a project manager might deliver a stakeholder engagement plan as a key output.
Participation #
The process of involving or engaging stakeholders in the decision-making process. This term is related to engagement and inclusion. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, participation is essential for stakeholders who require inclusive and equitable engagement. For instance, a stakeholder might participate in a stakeholder engagement strategy to achieve a shared goal.
Partner #
A person or organization that is involved in a collaborative or cooperative relationship. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, partner refers to the stakeholders who are involved in a collaborative or cooperative relationship. For example, a project manager might consider the partners who are involved in a stakeholder engagement strategy.
Partnership #
A relationship or agreement between two or more individuals or organizations. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, partnership is essential for stakeholders who require collaborative and cooperative relationships. For instance, a stakeholder might develop a partnership with other stakeholders to achieve a shared goal.
Policy #
A statement or guideline that outlines the rules or principles that govern an organization or project. This term is related to guideline and regulation. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, policy refers to the guidelines or principles that govern stakeholder engagement. For example, a project manager might consider the policy implications of a stakeholder engagement strategy.
Power #
The ability to influence or control others or events. This term is related to influence and leadership. In the context of Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, power is essential for stakeholders who require effective influence and control. For instance, a stakeholder might use power to shape the opinions or decisions of other stakeholders.