With whom should a project manager collaborate to address internal political and strategic issues?

Collaborating with the project sponsor is essential for addressing internal political and strategic issues because the project sponsor typically has the authority and influence to navigate the organizational landscape. The sponsor represents the interests of the organization and ensures alignment between the project and broader strategic objectives. They possess insights into the company's internal dynamics and can provide guidance on how to handle political challenges effectively.

Furthermore, the project sponsor often has established relationships throughout the organization, which can be leveraged to facilitate communication and gain support for the project. Their involvement is crucial in resolving conflicts, securing resources, and aligning stakeholder expectations, all of which are vital for the project's success.

In contrast, while team members can provide valuable input on project tasks, they may lack the perspective needed to tackle high-level strategic issues. External consultants might offer expertise, but they are often not embedded within the organization and may not fully understand the internal political landscape. Clients, although important for project delivery, typically focus on their own needs and may not be the right allies in addressing internal strategic concerns. Therefore, working with the project sponsor is the most effective approach for navigating these complex issues.