An Exploration of Critical Success Factors for Lean Project Management in the Upstream Petroleum Industry in Ghana

Abstract

Lean project management is quickly gaining acceptance in a variety of industries. The problem is despite the discovery of oil and subsequent exploration, Ghana has always been a net importer of crude oil, petroleum products, and natural gas. Given that lean management implementation inures to better performance and cost efficiencies, this study sought to ascertain the state of lean project management implementation in the upstream petroleum industry using Ghana as a case of an emerging economy context.Employing a Delphi style methodology by seeking experts’ opinions in the upstream sector of Ghana’s petroleum industry, the study found that even though lean project management implemented to an extent within the sector, its implementation is fraught with challenges such as low leadership to drive the lean process, management, and planning for the entire process. Experts in the field gave opinions as to the key considerations for successful implementation of lean project management in the upstream sector and the study recommended that lean project management should be emphasized more in the petroleum sector for higher performance that may inure to the country being a net exporter instead of a net importer of crude products.The study recommends strong leadership teams for the upstream sector to lead lean implementation with adequate training on lean project management provided to all staff for increased commitment and effective implementation that engenders a lean culture in the sector.