Your stakeholder is pushing for conflicting features. How can you maintain the game's vision intact?

1 Assess Needs

Understanding the underlying needs behind stakeholders' requests is crucial. Sometimes, what seems like a demand for a specific feature is actually a need for the game to meet a particular market trend or demographic. By engaging in open dialogue, you can uncover the true intentions behind their requests. This insight allows you to consider alternative solutions that align with both the stakeholders' objectives and your game's vision. It’s a matter of finding common ground and ensuring that the essence of your game isn't lost in translation.

2 Prioritize Vision

Your game's vision is its soul, and maintaining it should be your top priority. When faced with conflicting feature requests, evaluate them against the core objectives and themes of your game. If a feature doesn't enhance or align with the vision, it's okay to push back. Explain to stakeholders how certain features may dilute the game's identity and offer compromises that serve both parties. Prioritizing your vision doesn't mean being inflexible; it means being clear about what makes your game unique and standing firm on that foundation.

3 Creative Solutions

Finding creative solutions is often the bridge between conflicting ideas and a cohesive game plan. When stakeholders push for features that don't fit, think laterally. Is there a way to tweak the feature to make it align with the game's vision? Can you propose an alternative that satisfies the stakeholder's goals without disrupting the game's core experience? By thinking outside the box, you can often find innovative ways to incorporate feedback without compromising your game's integrity.

4 Effective Communication

Communication is the linchpin in managing stakeholder relationships. Articulate the reasons behind your decisions and the importance of the game's vision clearly and persuasively. When stakeholders understand the rationale for rejecting or modifying their requests, they are more likely to be supportive. Use visual aids, prototypes, or other materials to help convey your points. Effective communication can turn a potential conflict into a productive dialogue, fostering a collaborative environment.

5 Negotiate Smartly

Negotiation is an art, especially when it comes to preserving your game's vision. Approach these discussions with a win-win mindset, aiming to satisfy stakeholder needs while protecting the essence of your game. Sometimes this may involve trade-offs or phased feature implementation. Remember, negotiation is not about capitulation; it's about reaching an agreement that respects both the game's vision and the stakeholders' interests.

6 Maintain Balance

Striking a balance is essential in the gaming industry. You must weigh stakeholder demands against your creative direction and market viability. This delicate balancing act requires compromise, but not at the expense of your game's core identity. By maintaining this balance, you ensure that your game remains true to its vision while also considering the valuable input of those who have a stake in its success. It is possible to navigate these waters successfully with a clear focus and a flexible approach.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?