One key to planning your damage assessment program is the identification of stakeholders. Stakeholders are individuals who would provide input into the development, review, and implementation of the plan, based on their participation in all aspects of a disaster. Including a variety of stakeholders also helps you coordinate your damage assessment plan with existing plans, other agencies, and the EOC, which helps facilitate the community-wide response.

When identifying stakeholders, you can promote buy-in for your program by inviting community leaders and elected officials to participate in the planning process or key meetings.