Stakeholders can include a wide range of individuals, organizations, or groups who have an interest or stake in a program, project, or policy. The following summarizes five points about stakeholders:
Participants and beneficiaries: Individuals or groups directly involved in or benefiting from the program, such as clients, customers, students, patients, or community members, are important stakeholders. Their perspectives and needs should be considered in the evaluation process.
Program staff and implementers: Those responsible for program implementation, including program managers, staff, and frontline workers, are key stakeholders. Their insights into program design, implementation challenges, and outcomes are valuable for evaluation.
Funding agencies and policymakers: Stakeholders can include the entities providing funding or resources for the program, such as government agencies, foundations, or donors. Their priorities, expectations, and policy considerations shape the program's context and evaluation requirements.
Collaborating organizations or partners: Stakeholders may encompass organizations or entities collaborating with or supporting the program, including community-based organizations, non-profits, schools, or healthcare providers. Their involvement and perspectives contribute to the evaluation process.
Decision-makers and policymakers: Individuals or groups responsible for decision-making and policy development related to the program are stakeholders. Their interests, priorities, and decisions can be influenced by evaluation findings, impacting the program's future direction and sustainability.