An exploration of stakeholder values: In search of common ground within an international sport and development initiative

The purpose of this study was to uncover the values of the Commonwealth Games Association's of Canada's international sport and development (IDS) initiative. Interviews were conducted with 39 key program stakeholders (e.g., IDS organizational leaders, host organizational leaders, intern alumni) involved in the management and operations of the initiative. Certain values were espoused by the organization through written documentation while others were perceived by stakeholders and were described as instrumental toward achieving desired end-states. In general, evidence of both congruent and incongruent values emerged through interview data. Nuance between stakeholder groups was also found, which in turn exposed areas of operations requiring further managerial attention. The complex interplay of values uncovered in this study contributes to the research on values in sport management and the emergent area of using sport as a means toward various developmental goals.

► Interviews with 39 key stakeholders uncovered 12 values influencing behavior for this sport and development initiative.
► Evidence of congruent and incongruent values emerged which have implications for the management of this initiative.
► Nuance between stakeholders perception of values was also found.
► Instrumental values shaped behavior in regards to the pursuit of desired end-states.