Introduction:
Identifying key stakeholders or actors in case studies is essential for understanding the dynamics and relationships involved in a given situation. Stakeholders are individuals, groups, or organizations that have an interest or are affected by the outcome of a particular project, decision, or policy. Improving the ability to identify key stakeholders requires a systematic approach and attention to detail.

Steps to improve the ability to identify key stakeholders:

1. Understand the context:
Before identifying key stakeholders, it is crucial to thoroughly understand the context of the case study. Read the case study multiple times to grasp the background, objectives, and challenges involved. Familiarize yourself with the industry, sector, or issue being discussed.

2. Identify primary stakeholders:
Primary stakeholders are those directly affected by the project or decision. They have a vested interest and are often directly involved in the implementation or outcome. To identify primary stakeholders:

- Look for individuals or groups mentioned in the case study who have a direct role in the problem or decision-making process.
- Consider individuals or groups who could be affected by the outcome or have a direct interest in the project's success or failure.
- Analyze the power, legitimacy, and urgency of each stakeholder to prioritize their importance.

3. Recognize secondary stakeholders:
Secondary stakeholders have an indirect interest in the project or decision. They may be affected by the outcomes but have a less direct involvement. To identify secondary stakeholders:

- Consider individuals or groups who may be indirectly affected by the project or decision, such as customers, suppliers, or competitors.
- Look for parties who have influence or can exert pressure on the primary stakeholders.
- Recognize those who may have an interest in the issue but are not directly involved in the decision-making process.

4. Consider hidden stakeholders:
Hidden stakeholders are individuals or groups whose interests or involvement may not be immediately apparent. They may have strong opinions or potential influence on the outcome. To identify hidden stakeholders:

- Evaluate the broader societal or environmental impact of the project or decision.
- Look for less obvious connections or dependencies that could reveal hidden stakeholders.
- Consider the potential for conflicting interests or hidden agendas.

5. Use stakeholder mapping techniques:
Stakeholder mapping is a visual tool that helps analyze the relationships, interests, and power dynamics among stakeholders. It can be done in a matrix format, categorizing stakeholders based on their level of influence and interest. By mapping stakeholders, you can identify key players and their positions more easily.

Conclusion:
Improving the ability to identify key stakeholders in case studies requires a systematic approach, attention to detail, and consideration of both direct and indirect stakeholders. By understanding the context, identifying primary and secondary stakeholders, recognizing hidden stakeholders, and utilizing stakeholder mapping techniques, one can gain a comprehensive understanding of the actors involved in a case study. This skill is essential for effective analysis and decision-making in various sectors and industries.