Many project managers have seen a graph that shows “Influence of Stakeholders” starting out high and declining as the project progresses.

In contrast, it also shows the “Cost of Changes” starting out low and increasing as the project progresses. What is the key insight a project manager should gain from this graph?

Stakeholder influence is not important at the end of the project.

Make changes as early in the project as possible.

Set aside money for expected changes at the end of the project.

Place the project on hold until all changes are made.