Exploring the patterns of convergence and divergence in the development of major infrastructure projects

Abstract

This paper explores the long-term patterns in the development phase of major infrastructure projects to advance our understanding of underlying temporal unfolding processes and of the possibilities for steering these towards a more resolute and better prepared start of execution. Our inquiry relies on a process perspective, on the concept of project trajectory as a pattern of project participants' and stakeholders' convergence and divergence with respect to conditions enabling the start of execution, and on a theoretical framework aiming to explain the formation of long-term trajectories. This framework is used to study the development trajectories of three major infrastructure projects in North America and to elaborate preliminary accounts of their onset. Results contribute an original conceptual arsenal for tracing and reflecting on the overall project development trajectories, as well as a broader, more dynamic understanding of factors conditioning the pattern, pace and efficacy of convergence towards project execution.