The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Stakeholder Relations Management Practices
By Harold Kerzner, Ph.D. and Elissa Farrow, Ph.D.
Abstract
The emergence of AI advancements, such as ChatGPT, and the subsequent surge in its utilization, have highlighted the importance of establishing well-defined objectives and criteria to determine the appropriate extent of AI integration in project decision-making and problem-solving processes.
Often, decisions within organizational contexts are influenced by power dynamics and notions of control, where the loudest voices tend to prevail. Achieving consensus and transparency with affected stakeholders will be crucial in determining the optimal level of AI implementation. If a decision carries implications for human life, a future article will delve into the necessary validation processes.
In cases where stakeholder trust in AI adoption cannot be fostered, it may be necessary to explore alternative approaches to decision-making or problem-solving, free from AI practices. However, this may prove increasingly challenging for larger organizations that view AI as an efficiency enabler.
Companies must adopt a firm ethical stance regarding the inclusion of stakeholders in the decision-making process at the project’s outset, allowing them to choose whether AI can or should be utilized and to what extent. This enables adequate time to prepare but also commences to move people up the engagement curve from hearing the message, to understanding their place in the verification and validation of the decision and to then own the outcome.
About the Authors
Harold Kerzner, Ph.D
Dr. Harold Kerzner is a globally recognized expert in project, program, and portfolio management, innovation, and strategic planning, and Senior Executive Director at International Institute for Learning (IIL). For over 50 years, Dr. Kerzner has shared vital guidance for making project management a strategic tool for competitive advantage and helping companies around the world build a powerful foundation for company improvement and excellence.
He has authored or co-authored more than 60 textbooks/workbooks on project management, including multiple editions of his seminal works. His books include Project Management: A Systems Approach to Planning, Scheduling and Controlling; Project Management Metrics, KPIs and Dashboards; Project Management Case Studies; Project Management Best Practices: Achieving Global Excellence; The Future of Project Management; Using the Project Management Maturity Model; and Innovation Project Management.
Dr. Kerzner holds an MS and Ph.D. in Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering from the University of Illinois and an MBA from Utah State University. He taught engineering at the University of Illinois and business administration at Utah State University, and for 38 years taught project management at Baldwin-Wallace University. A testament to Dr. Kerzner’s profound influence on the field is the establishment of the Kerzner International Project Manager of the Year Award. This prestigious award, presented annually by the Project Management Institute (PMI) which recognizes outstanding project managers who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and contributions to the project management profession.
Elissa Farrow, Ph.D.
Senior Consultant and Facilitator
International Institute of Learning
Dr. Elissa Farrow is a futurist, author, facilitator, coach, and strategist. She has over 25 years of experience in research, organizational innovation, design, adaptation, and benefit realization. Dr. Farrow is known for her compassionate leadership and engagement approach. She is an experienced leader and has been a partner in transformation in various industries. Dr. Farrow is a published author, and her doctoral research explored the implications of Artificial Intelligence on organizational futures. Her research created innovative adaptation principles for leaders and delivery teams as well as new knowledge relating to how to best transform organizations operating models to anticipate and create positive futures. In 2023, Dr. Farrow became an Adjunct Fellow at the University of the Sunshine Coast.
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