A project manager learns that 70% of the stakeholders prefer email communication. What should the project manager do next regarding the communication channel?

The best course of action for the project manager is to update the stakeholder register with preferred communication methods. This step ensures that the project manager is aware of and can track the communication preferences of all stakeholders, not just the majority who prefer email. By documenting this information, the project manager can tailor communication strategies to effectively engage all stakeholders and address any specific needs or preferences they may have. This organized approach helps maintain clear and consistent communication throughout the project, increases stakeholder satisfaction, and fosters stronger relationships.

In contrast, implementing a weekly email round-up, while it may benefit stakeholders who prefer email, does not address the broader range of preferences and may overlook stakeholders who favor other methods. Discarding all other communication preferences is counterproductive, as it risks alienating stakeholders who may require alternative methods for effective engagement. Moving all communications to face-to-face meetings would ignore the significant preference for emails expressed by 70% of the stakeholders and could lead to inefficiencies that disrupt the flow of communication. By updating the stakeholder register, the project manager lays the groundwork for a comprehensive communication plan that accommodates diverse stakeholder needs.