| Abstract [eng] |
Short description of MA thesis: Due to the rapidly changing employees’ behavior, preferences, and working conditions, there is not enough knowledge about internal stakeholders’ engagement. It is necessary to dig deeper into stakeholders’ engagement theory and examine what drivers stimulate and foster higher engagement levels of stakeholders and, based on that, build stakeholders’ engagement practices. Aim and objectives of MA thesis: The MA thesis aims to find drivers that motivate internal stakeholders to engage in projects and establish effective internal stakeholders’ engagement practices. The objectives are: (1) review the academic literature related to internal stakeholders’ theory and provide the overview of what has been already researched so far and build the foundation of the research model; (2) identify attributes for internal stakeholders’ engagement, (3) develop theoretical research model based on identified attributes, (4) conduct empirical research, (5) relate empirical research to the theoretical model, (6) provide conclusions and practical recommendations. Methods used in MA thesis: A qualitative research method was used, conducting semi-structured interviews and applying inductive thematic data analysis. Research carried out and results obtained: The analysis of scientific literature revealed that stakeholders‘ theory is still not completely developed; the theory reaches limits at the stakeholders‘ engagement phase. There are no clear models and practices on how to engage internal stakeholders in projects and gain additional added value. The empirical research revealed four possible groups of practices that cover the need to Provide benefits, Develop project managers‘ skills and competencies, Develop a transparent organizational culture and Establish project management discipline practices. Main conclusions: Conducted qualitative research proved assumptions presented in the scientific literature that internal stakeholders‘ engagement depends on interest, activeness, power, urgency, attitude. It is recommended that the organization establish project management discipline and develop managers' skills and competencies. The organization should review its‘ values and consider adding a collaborative approach as one of the key business driving forces. To achieve higher engagement in projects, organization and project managers should consider what trade-offs they are able and willing to offer to internal stakeholders to get beneficial and meaningful engagement as a return. |
