What is the first step in engaging stakeholders in business improvement processes?

The first step in engaging stakeholders in business improvement processes is identifying key business functions and roles affected by changes. This approach is crucial because it lays the groundwork for meaningful engagement. By recognizing who will be impacted by the changes, an organization can ensure that the right people are involved in the discussions and decision-making processes. This step facilitates open communication, fosters trust, and encourages collaboration, which are all essential for successful business improvement efforts. Engaging stakeholders early on allows for their insights and concerns to be addressed, thereby increasing the likelihood of acceptance and support for the changes being implemented.

In contrast, summarizing old projects does not provide the necessary focus on current stakeholders and their needs. Excluding affected teams undermines the collaborative spirit essential for improvement and can lead to resistance to change. Similarly, concentrating on minor details rather than the broader implications of the changes can distract from the essential stakeholder engagement needed for effective improvements. Therefore, identifying key business functions and roles is foundational for creating a successful stakeholder engagement strategy.