Who is considered an internal stakeholder in a project?

The Project Manager (PM) is considered an internal stakeholder in a project because they are directly involved in the planning, execution, and oversight of project activities. Internal stakeholders are individuals or groups that are actively part of the organization and its decision-making processes, having a vested interest in the success of the project. The PM plays a crucial role in coordinating resources, managing team members, and ensuring that project objectives align with organizational goals.

In contrast, the contractors involved in the project operate as external parties who are hired to fulfill specific tasks and are not embedded within the organization's structure. Legislators and taxpayers are also external stakeholders, as they provide funding and oversight but do not participate in the daily operations or management of the project. Their interests and oversight roles are important but do not place them in the internal stakeholder category. Therefore, the role of the Project Manager distinctly positions them as an essential internal stakeholder within the project's ecosystem.