During which phase should stakeholders’ roles and responsibilities be defined?

Defining stakeholders' roles and responsibilities during the planning phase is crucial for the overall success of a project. This phase lays the groundwork for how the project will be executed, and identifying who is responsible for what helps ensure that everyone is on the same page regarding expectations and deliverables.

In the planning phase, detailed planning is conducted, including project scope, timelines, resources, and risks. By clearly outlining each stakeholder's contributions and accountability at this stage, it reduces ambiguities and potential conflicts later in the project. It also aids in establishing communication channels and clarifying duties, which can improve collaboration throughout the execution phase.

Having defined roles also helps in managing performance effectively and ensuring that all stakeholders understand their involvement and impact on the overall outcomes. Thus, defining roles and responsibilities is essential during the planning phase to set a solid foundation for the entire project lifecycle.