The individuals with an interest in the acquisition and its outcome are best described as stakeholders. Stakeholders encompass a broad range of individuals or groups who have a vested interest, whether direct or indirect, in the success or failure of an acquisition. This category includes anyone affected by the acquisition, including shareholders, employees, customers, suppliers, and even the community at large.
Understanding stakeholders is crucial in the context of acquisitions because their needs and expectations can significantly influence the decision-making process and the overall strategy of the organization involved. Stakeholders may have different perspectives and interests, which can impact everything from performance metrics to the long-term viability of the acquisition.
Governance refers more to the frameworks, practices, and policies that guide decision-making but does not explicitly refer to individuals. External stakeholders typically include entities outside of the organization, while internal stakeholders are those within the organization itself. However, stakeholders, in general, cover both categories and thus provide a comprehensive understanding of all parties interested in the acquisition and its outcomes.