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StrategyIntermediate

Friend or Foe?

The 'Friend or Foe?' method helps teams map out and analyze stakeholder relationships and their influence on a project. It is particularly useful for understanding the dynamics within an organization and identifying potential allies or obstacles to a project’s success.

Duration
1h
Group size
5–15 people
Materials
Whiteboard, Dry-erase markers, Sticky notes…

How to run it

  1. 1

    Invite participants from various parts of the organization to ensure comprehensive stakeholder mapping.

  2. 2

    Begin with a five-minute brainstorm to identify stakeholders, having participants write each one on a sticky note.

  3. 3

    Organize the sticky notes into a rough organizational chart on a wall, then create a cleaner version on a whiteboard.

  4. 4

    Discuss each stakeholder's disposition towards the initiative, their level of impact, and relationship strength with others.

  5. 5

    Use tokens or icons to visually represent stakeholder dynamics on the whiteboard.

Tips

  • Encourage open discussion to reveal insights about stakeholder influence and relationships.

  • Use different colors and symbols to avoid clutter and enhance understanding.

  • Ensure that all voices are heard to create a comprehensive map.

Variations

For smaller teams or less complex organizations, simplify the process by limiting the number of stakeholders analyzed. Alternatively, integrate digital tools for remote teams to collaboratively build the stakeholder map.

Where it fits

Project planning sessionsChange management initiativesStakeholder analysis workshops
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Method descriptions on Workshop Weaver are original content written by our team, based on established facilitation practices. This method was inspired by work from Gamestorming.

Friend or Foe? — Facilitation Method | Workshop Weaver