How do risk management practices lead to project success in the construction industry? The mediated moderation of risk coping capacity and risk transparency

Abstract

Project risks are widespread in the construction industry because of the uncertainty and complexity involved in construction activities. Many factors directly or indirectly affect a project’s successful completion. Therefore, a project’s success largely depends on how it manages risks. This study examines the effect of risk management practices on project success. In addition, it explores the mechanism that leads to project success. Understanding risk management practices and processes that influence project performance is vital for success. This study proposes that three risk management practices (e.g. risk identification, monitoring, and prevention) influence project success. Furthermore, this study maintains that the risk coping capacity mediates, and risk transparency moderates the relationship between risk management practices and project success. We tested the hypotheses using survey questionnaire data provided by 320 project managers. It reveals that risk management practices significantly influence project success. It also finds that risk coping capacity mediates the relationship between risk management practices and project success. Furthermore, risk transparency moderates the relationship between risk coping capacity and project success. This study contributes to the risk management literature by explaining the mechanism that leads to project success. It also discussed theoretical contributions and practical implementations.