Algorithm applied in the identification of stakeholders Anna Maria Gil-Lafuente and Luciano Barcellos Paula Faculty of Economics and Business, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain Abstract Purpose – This paper aims to focus the research on the identification of stakeholders through an analysis of an empirical study by a consulting firm in Brazil. In this case study, the company needs to identify the stakeholders that can exert some influence in its sphere of activity. Design/methodology/approach – The paper considers the question: to do sustainable business, companies must have good knowledge of all actors with influence in their sphere of activity. This identification of stakeholders is the first step. Based on stakeholder theory, the authors discuss the importance of management with stakeholders in the pursuit of sustainability in business. To achieve this objective, the consultant hired has used fuzzy logic algorithm, applying the theory of clans. Findings – In applying the model through an empirical study, it has been possible to provide a tool based on the use of grouping algorithm that can facilitate decision making by obtaining qualitative data from a dialogue with managers or specialists on a particular topic. The model also serves to establish the level of relationship between different stakeholders and obtain affinities. Originality/value – The paper provides an innovative and a useful tool to be used in the process of identifying stakeholders. The paper’s main contribution is the application of algorithms in the identification of stakeholders considering sustainability criteria in enterprises, and providing a useful model in making decisions. Keywords Fuzzy logic, Sustainability, Identification of stakeholders, Stakeholder theory, Theory of clans Paper type Research paper Introduction According to Freeman (1984), the stakeholders of a company are by definition any group or individual who can affect or is affected by the achievement of the objectives of the organization. Since Freeman’s research, other authors have emphasized the concept of stakeholders (Alkhafaji, 1989; Carroll and Buchholtz, 1989; Brummer, 1991; Clarkson, 1991; Goodpaster, 2006; Hill and Jones, 1992; Wood, 1991; Donaldson and Preston, 1995; Mitchell et al., 1997; Post et al., 2002; Rodrı ´guez et al., 2002; Aguilera and Jackson, 2003; Hart and Sharma, 2004), with the publication of several books and articles on the subject. The stakeholder theory posits that a firm’s ability to generate sustainable wealth over time, and thus its long-term value is determined by its relations with its stakeholders (Freeman, 1984). The identification is the first step in building a sustainable relationship with stakeholders. This process is very important for companies because at this point, those groups that may influence its sphere of activity will be identified. Not considering a particular group as an interested party may be a risk to the company, as this group can contribute positively to market opportunities, as well as in the prevention of some problems in the environmental, social and economic. To Mohn (2005) the science has The current issue and full text archive of this journal is available at www.emeraldinsight.com/0368-492X.htm Luciano Barcellos Paula has a scholarship from the MAEC-AECID. Received 7 May 2013 Revised 7 May 2013 Accepted 7 July 2013 Kybernetes Vol. 42 No. 5, 2013 pp. 674-685 q Emerald Group Publishing Limited 0368-492X DOI 10.1108/K-04-2013-0073 K 42,5 674