What is a stakeholder?

Stakeholders are individuals, groups, or organizations that have an interest in or are affected by the outcome of a project, business, or decision. They can include employees, customers, shareholders, suppliers, government agencies, and the wider community. Stakeholders may have varying levels of influence and involvement, and their needs and expectations often help shape the direction and success of a project or organization. Effective stakeholder management is crucial to achieving positive outcomes and minimizing potential conflicts.