Using RBM approach in managing projects beyond the development sector

Abstract

Purpose – Result-based management (RBM) is common approach used in the development sector to initiate, plan and implement projects. However, to the knowledge of the authors the approach has hardly been used in delivering projects in other sectors, for example, information technology, infrastructure or business. The purpose of this paper is to document a case study in which the RBM approach was used to guide the delivery of a business project in Botswana. Design/methodology/approach – A case study strategy was used to document the delivery process of the project. Data were collected from a variety of sources that included review of documents, interviews, focus discussions and a site visit. The content analysis technique was used to analyse the collected data. Findings – The case illustrates the possibility of using the RBM approach to initiate, plan and implement a project in the business sector. Research limitations/implications – Being a case study, the approach needs to be tested with more case studies. Practical implications – Apart from illustrating the possible use of RBM approach, the paper illustrates systematic processes used in the case study for project delivery. It also outlines some of the resultant challenges which may be appreciated by practitioners, academics and trainees. Originality/value – The use of RBM approach in guiding the delivery of a business project.