Abstract
Strategic analysis of stakeholders involved in the transition to a smart distribution system has been conducted. Proceeding from this analysis, deductions and conclusions about methods for promoting and allowing a smoother transition to the new paradigm are drawn. The recommendations can be highlighted as follows: 1) promoting new smart grid technologies; 2) encouraging communication and cooperation between involved parties; 3) consideration of daily optimal operation of assets to fully take advantage of their new active nature in order to better allocate them in the long-term planning process; and 4) consideration of stakeholders' interests in the planning phase in order to better absorb investments and move to the new paradigm. This required a design of a planning methodology that absorbs higher investments and considers the multi-stakeholder nature of the new systems.