Bachelor of General Studies (BGS) Degree Practice Exam

Which of the following categories is NOT included in the eight strategic stakeholder categories?

1. Customer

2. Investor

3. Economy

4. Technology

The correct answer is: Investor

The strategic stakeholder categories typically reflect the various groups or individuals an organization interacts with and relies upon for its success. These categories generally include customers, investors, employees, regulators, suppliers, community, and others that contribute to or affect the organization's mission and goals. In this context, customers are vital as they drive demand and revenue for a business. They are often modeled as a key stakeholder group, emphasizing their direct impact on a company's products, services, and overall success. Investors are also a primary stakeholder category, closely tied to financial performance and growth. They provide capital, expect returns, and have the potential to influence company strategy significantly. While the economy and technology certainly play critical roles in shaping the business environment and can affect stakeholder dynamics, they do not fit neatly into the defined categories of strategic stakeholders. The economy serves as a broader context within which stakeholders operate, impacting overall market conditions but not representing a specific group of individuals or organizations interacting with the company. In summary, because "investor" is recognized as a crucial group that plays a direct role in the organizational strategy and outcomes, the choice that is not included in the eight strategic stakeholder categories is the economy.