Mapping and Managing Organization Objectives: A Case Study of the Alto Maipo Hydroelectric Project in Chile

Abstract

This study presents a process that uses the method of alliances, conflicts, tactics, objectives, and recommendations (MACTOR) to inform integrated water resources management (IWRM) strategies for complex, multiorganization hydroelectric projects. This process is applied to the Alto Maipo Hydroelectric Project (AMHP) in Chile. The process enabled qualitative and quantitative insight on the interconnected aspects of alignment and conflict between AMHP organizations by mapping the battlefield on which they converge or diverge based on their organizational objectives and relative levels of influence. Study findings reveal environmental protection and water provision as the core objectives around which conflicts center. Study findings also point to a nuanced power struggle between state and local organizations that undermines project productivity. Project recommendations focus on improving communication and collaboration between aligned yet siloed organizations and on improving the mechanisms for information flow and advocacy for the local community and governmental organizations. These findings demonstrate the utility of the MACTOR approach-as it is applied within the proposed process-as a way to inform IWRM strategies for multiorganization hydroelectric projects from a systems perspective