Project Management Challenges Research Articles

Categories and Factors of Cost Overrun in Construction Projects: A Systematic Review

Cost overruns represent a significant challenge in construction project management and often compromise project success. This study addresses gaps in previous research, particularly the lack of a unified classification of cost overrun factors. The aim is to provide a comprehensive, unbiased, and structured synthesis of existing research on the factors contributing to cost overruns in construction projects. It involves identifying, evaluating, and categorizing studies to answer predefined research questions related to cost overruns across various geographical contexts, project types, stakeholder perspectives, and project lifecycle phases. Through a Systematic Literature Review (SLR), the current study identifies and categorizes 99 factors into 10 distinct categories: 1) Execution, Resource, and Project Management Factors, 2) Design Factors, 3) Contractor Factors, 4) Consultant Factors, 5) Client Factors, 6) Financial Management Factors, 7) Bidding and Cost Estimation Factors 8) Contracts, Legal, and Regulatory Factors, 9) External Risks, Technology, and Sustainability Factors, and 10) Defects Liability Period (DLP) Operations and Maintenance Factors. Additionally, the present research examines both advanced and traditional methodologies for mitigating these overruns, emphasizing accurate cost estimation, risk management, and the use of advanced technologies, like Building Information Modeling (BIM), alongside strong financial and contract management. This paper synthesizes results from different global contexts to establish a solid foundation for future academic research and industry practices aimed at alleviating cost overruns in construction projects. It also promotes the development of customized frameworks that are specific to a country, a lifecycle phase, or a combination of conditions.

A SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW ON ROLE OF PROJECT MANAGEMENT IN DIGITAL FORENSICS INVESTIGATION

The landscape of digital forensics has evolved significantly with the advent of sophisticated cybercrimes and the proliferation of digital devices. Digital forensics is a rapidly evolving discipline, characterized by unique challenges such as rapidly changing technology, large volumes of data, and stringent legal requirements. Effective project management in this context is crucial to ensure that investigations are conducted efficiently, accurately, and in compliance with legal standards. This systematic literature review aims to comprehensively analyze the role of project management practices in optimizing digital forensics investigations. Using established search protocols and selection criteria, we identified and analyzed relevant studies published between 2016 until 2023 that explored the application of project management methodologies, challenges, and best practices within the context of digital investigations. By applying effective project management strategies, investigators can ensure efficient, accurate, and legally sound digital investigations, ultimately contributing to successful criminal prosecutions and civil litigation outcomes.

Project management challenges in client‐consultant decision‐making: A case for the Ghanaian mining construction industry

AbstractThis study explores the complex decision‐making (DM) dynamics between clients and consultants, a crucial area often neglected in existing research. Utilizing a Multi‐Perspective Approach combined with Multi‐Criteria Decision Analysis, we examine DM challenges such as cost overruns, project delays, and compromised work quality stemming from ineffective DM practices. Key findings highlight the pervasive fear of financial repercussions from poor decisions, which impedes decisive and transparent DM. We offer practical recommendations for managers, propose strategies to strengthen DM processes, enhance project execution frameworks and insights to improve operational efficiency and competitive advantages for Ghanaian mining construction sector stakeholders. This study significantly contributes to the literature on project management by offering targeted solutions and advancing knowledge on DM practices.

Net-Zero Considerations within the Delivery of Major AEC Projects in the UK: A Thematic Analysis of the Key Challenges for Project Managers

The growing emphasis on carbon considerations and the pursuit of net-zero emissions have brought about a paradigm shift in project management. To successfully facilitate the transition towards net-zero emissions, major projects must not only adapt existing systems but also embed carbon targets into their core strategies. While several studies have investigated carbon integration during the procurement phase, limited attention has been given to the construction project manager (PM) perspective. This study aims to bridge this research gap by exploring the challenges and barriers faced by construction PMs when integrating carbon targets and metrics into major Architectural, Engineering and Construction (AEC) projects, as well as evaluating the readiness of project teams to deliver on these. This study deployed a qualitative exploratory research design, where semi-structured interviews were conducted with 17 AEC project professionals actively engaged in the planning and execution of major projects in the UK. Thematic analysis of the data revealed a range of challenges and barriers faced by PM teams delivering these projects. The research findings contribute to the field of construction major projects and project management by enhancing the understanding of the challenges faced by PMs when planning and delivering major AEC projects within the context of the net-zero transition. This study uncovers a series of challenges and prevalent practices that have the potential to impede progress towards net zero. A conceptual model is also proposed, offering a synthesis of the different PM perspectives on carbon integration.

Insights and challenges of sustainable project management implementations in construction sectors: Systematic literature analysis

The construction industry is a significant contributor towards global environmental degradation and resource depletion, with developing economies facing unique challenges in adopting sustainable construction practices. This systematic review aims to investigate the gap in sustainable construction implementation among global counterparts. The study utilizes the P5 (People, Planet, Prosperity, Process, Products) Standard as a framework for evaluating sustainable construction project management based on environmental, social, and economic targets. A Systematic Literature Review from a pool of 994 Sustainable Construction Project Management (SCPM) papers is conducted utilizing the PRISMA methodology. Through rigorous Identification, Screening, and Eligibility Verification, an analysis is synthesized from 44 relevant literature discussing SCPM Implementations worldwide. The results highlight significant challenges in three main categories: environmental, social, and economic impacts. Social impacts are found as the most extensively researched, while environmental and economic impacts are less studied. Further analysis reveals that social impacts are a major concern in sustainable construction, with numerous studies addressing labor practices and societal well-being. However, there is a notable gap in research on human rights within the construction industry. Environmental impacts, such as resource utilization, energy consumption, and pollution, are less frequently addressed, indicating a need for more focused studies in these areas. Economic impacts, including local economic impact and business agility, are further substantially underrepresented in the literature, suggesting that economic viability is a critical yet underexplored aspect of sustainable construction. The findings underscore the need for further research in these areas to address the implementation challenges of sustainable project management effectively. This research contributes towards the overall research of global sustainable construction through the utilization of the P5 Standards as a new lens of determining sustainability performance for construction projects worldwide.

Mechanism for allocating delay to constituent activities in project management

Project delays are common in construction due to unavoidable factors such as severe weather and human factors such as poor planning. These delays originate from the constituent activities within the project. A critical challenge in project management is accurately assigning delays to specific activities. However, this issue remains poorly understood. This study aims to address the allocation of delays to constituent activities by developing a mechanism using the Shapley value. We also propose solution methods to effectively solve the delay allocation problem. Moreover, we conduct numerical experiments that demonstrate the efficiency and applicability of the proposed mechanism and solution methods. This study can provide guidelines for allocating project delays (e.g., identifying the activity that contributes most to project delay) and project appraisal. Overall, this study contributes to a better understanding of the allocation of project delays, providing reference for project management and decision-making in the construction industry.

Technology Focus: Field Development (September 2024)

As the industry progresses, the need for further collaboration is imperative on all fronts. Academic expertise, operational experience, and knowledge gathered through trial-and-error analysis must be meshed in order to achieve the optimizations that are increasingly needed with the depletions we experience in various fields globally. The challenges that we face as an industry will require development of new technologies, whether workflows or other innovative solutions, that we never thought possible because of the need for supporting infrastructure to address them. The challenges also require more closely coupled connections between stakeholders—the innovators in academia and industry and the doers who close the gap of technology deployment. Deployment requires taking the ideas and tried and tested opportunities to fruition, where the knowledge is shared and highlighted for our community at large. The three papers synopsized in this feature include a discussion of augmented depletion development, a technique in which openhole wells are drilled within the fractured network of a pad; an approach to well-path generation that relies on the collection of experienced-based constraints from each discipline to generate possible alternatives to the well path; and a multidisciplinary approach used to develop a presalt field offshore Brazil. The hope is that the technical articles in this feature can demonstrate to the reader the scope of collaboration and the effect of technical knowledge sharing that our industry currently enjoys—and requires. I hope they drive more questions and provoke further and deeper understanding of the content to the benefit of all. More importantly, I hope they highlight the complexity that is involved in addressing the industry challenges in field development and project management.

An innovative integrated framework for multi-level production planning and control systems in construction

The construction industry is plagued by chronic inefficiencies, such as low productivity, significant waste, cost overruns, and schedule delays. One of the most critical contributors to these issues is fragmented and ineffective planning and control methods. This research aims to address these challenges by developing an innovative integrated multi-level framework for production planning and control that harmonizes various planning methods and control metrics across different schedule levels. Employing the Design Science Research (DSR) methodology, this study systematically develops and evaluates an innovative framework that integrates internal and external project characteristics, utilizing the concept of "functionality" as a primary key for coherent integration. Furthermore, a multi-objective mathematical model is incorporated to clarify the framework's components and optimize the number of suggested planning methods and control metrics at each scheduling level, aiming to balance the functional requirements of project teams with the practicality of implementation.The application of the framework to a renovation case study demonstrates its practicality and strategic value, effectively addressing real-world project management challenges. Moreover, industry and academic evaluations highlight its potential to significantly improve construction project management practices.

Cloud Migration Challenges for Project Managers in Enterprise Environments: A Comprehensive Study

Cloud Migration Challenges for Project Managers in Enterprise Environments: A Comprehensive Study

Leveraging Artificial Intelligence for Enhanced Performance in Matrix Organizations: A Research Perspective

In today's complex business landscape, matrix organizations represent a prevalent structural framework characterized by overlapping reporting structures and cross-functional project teams. This organizational model, while offering flexibility and specialization, also presents unique challenges in resource allocation, decision-making, collaboration, and project management. This research paper investigates the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to address these challenges and enhance the performance of matrix organizations. Drawing upon an extensive review of existing literature and relevant case studies, the paper provides a comprehensive analysis of AI's role in optimizing various aspects of matrix organization operations. Specifically, it examines how AI technologies can streamline resource allocation processes by analyzing project requirements, team capabilities, and individual skill sets to ensure optimal staffing levels and skill matching across projects. Additionally, the paper explores AI's capabilities in providing decision support to managers and team leaders by leveraging data analytics to offer insights into project progress, risk assessment, and performance evaluation.

Streamlining Project Management in the Production Sector: A Case Study of Industrial Engineering

The objective of the research is to pinpoint issues in project management, as this is crucial for the development of a successful project. There is a need to expand the existing knowledge in project management, as it contributes to enhancing a company’s project management system. Additionally, the study presents effective remedies for project management challenges. Initially, we introduce the specific project, followed by an examination of the current state of production processes. In this context, we endeavour to propose solutions. The concluding section focuses on evaluating these solutions, summarizing the study, and achieving the study’s objective. These outcomes contribute to cost savings and ensure maximum customer satisfaction.

Overcoming team challenges in project management: The scrum framework

This paper delves into how teams in organizations can achieve success in project management. We compare the traditional Waterfall approach used by teams in project management to the Agile framework and provide data supporting the success rates of the different approaches to project management. Based on the data supporting the success of Scrum (an Agile framework), we explain what Scrum is and how it works. We discuss the modern complexities that management and leadership are challenged with when it comes to the execution of their projects and how the application of Scrum provides relevant, practical, sustainable, and valuable solutions. We also discuss common stressors that teams encounter and how the application of Scrum provides coping strategies for teams.

Scheduling Analysis on the Heavy Rehabilitation Construction Project of the Dr. R. Koesma Tuban Hospital Building Using the PERT Method

Project scheduling is a key factor in achieving successful implementation as planned. Constraints such as limited resources, improper reporting, and high costs often become challenges in project management. Delays in project completion are very detrimental both in terms of cost and time. Just like what happened in the Rehabilitation and Heavy Construction Project of the Outpatient and Administration Building at Dr. R. Koesma Regional General Hospital in Tuban Regency, there was a delay of 10 days in its implementation. This research aims to determine the duration of the rehabilitation of the dr. R. Koesma Hospital building in Tuban Regency using the PERT method to improve time efficiency, reduce the risk of delays, and ensure overall project success. The research method used is combining two approaches, PERT method (Program Evaluation and Review Technique) to calculate the expected duration estimation of each work, and Microsoft Project 2016 to compile a project schedule that allows identification of critical activities and work network analysis. The results of the analysis using PERT method and Microsoft Project 2016 showed that the project was estimated to be completed in 115 days, faster than the planned 133 days. The probability that the project will be completed within the planned target duration T(d) = 133 days is 99.9%. Hence, there is a high probability that the project will be completed on time.

Copula: a decentralized solution for construction project monitoring using blockchain

PurposeThis study aims to introduce and evaluate the COPULA framework, a construction project monitoring solution based on blockchain designed to address the inherent challenges of construction project monitoring and management. This research aims to enhance efficiency, transparency and trust within the dynamic and collaborative environment of the construction industry by leveraging the decentralized, secure and immutable nature of blockchain technology.Design/methodology/approachThis paper employs a comprehensive approach encompassing the formulation of the COPULA model, the development of a digital solution using the ethereum blockchain and extensive testing to assess performance in terms of execution cost, time, integrity, immutability and security. A case analysis is conducted to demonstrate the practical application and benefits of blockchain technology in real-world construction project monitoring scenarios.FindingsThe findings reveal that the COPULA framework effectively addresses critical issues such as centralization, privacy and security vulnerabilities in construction project management. It facilitates seamless data exchange among stakeholders, ensuring real-time transparency and the creation of a tamper-proof communication channel. The framework demonstrates the potential to significantly enhance project efficiency and foster trust among all parties involved.Research limitations/implicationsWhile the study provides promising insights into the application of blockchain technology in construction project monitoring, future research could explore the integration of COPULA with existing project management methodologies to broaden its applicability and impact. Further investigations into the solution’s scalability and adaptation to various construction project types and sizes are also suggested.Originality/valueThis research offers a comprehensive blockchain solution specifically tailored for the construction industry. Unlike prior studies focusing on theoretical aspects, this paper presents a practical, end-to-end solution encompassing model formulation, digital implementation, proof-of-concept testing and validation analysis. The COPULA framework marks a significant advancement in the digital transformation of construction project monitoring, providing a novel approach to overcoming longstanding industry challenges.

Asana and Trello: A Comparative Assessment of Project Management Capabilities

Project management tools are essential for streamlining project management activities and providing a variety of functionalities to assist organizations in executing projects efficiently. The selection of an appropriate tool is crucial, given the many options available in the market. This scholarly article employs a comparative analysis methodology to scrutinize two prominent project management tools, Asana and Trello. The aim is to assist companies and organizations in making informed decisions based on their specific needs. The comparative analysis delves into the strengths and weaknesses of Asana and Trello, assessing their features, functionalities, and suitability in the context of knowledge management areas. Both tools are evaluated for their capability to address project management challenges and improve organizational processes. The study concludes that the choice between Asana and Trello hinges on factors such as project scale, organizational requirements, and the preferred level of complexity. With its comprehensive features, Asana emerges as ideal for larger, agile-oriented projects. In contrast, Trello's simplicity and user-friendly interface suit relatively smaller projects well. This analysis provides valuable insights for organizations to align their project management tools with specific project conditions, facilitating optimising project execution processes to meet their unique goals and requirements. In terms of features, Asana outshines Trello by providing a more extensive range of functionalities that effectively support the mapping of knowledge management areas.

Managing Scope Creeps in Product Led Software-Based Organizations

Scope creep presents a significant challenge for project managers throughout the project lifecycle. It can lead to budget overruns and schedule delays. This paper explores how project managers, especially those in software development organizations can effectively manage and prevent scope creep during project execution. It delves into the various factors that can contribute to changes in a project's scope and the resulting impacts. Historically, project management has placed more emphasis on cost, time, and performance, with less attention given to scope change management. This paper presents multiple solutions for addressing scope creep. One proposed solution involves establishing a contract to freeze the project's scope during the planning phase. While this approach effectively prevents scope changes, it may not be feasible for many projects. Another suggestion, put forth by T.J. Jach and J.R. Coat in their work "Managing the Change Process on Projects: A Step-by-Step Guide," is to incorporate "escape clauses" into project plans. These clauses involve predetermined procedures and utilize cost- benefit analysis to determine when and if a scope change is necessary. This method offers a structured approach for evaluating the potential impacts of scope changes and can be quite effective. (Jayalath & Somarathna, 2021) Keyword: Scope Creep, Customer Satisfaction, Perception, Expectations, Uncertainty, Security, Software, Expectations

Best Practices and Implementation Challenges in Effective Project Management

The purpose of this research paper is to explore the most effective project management practices and analyze the challenges organizations face during their implementation. By adopting best practices, organizations can avoid common mistakes and achieve the best possible project outcomes. This process involves establishing a Project Management Office (PMO) as the project's central hub, selecting an appropriate methodology, developing project manager competencies, and managing change and risk effectively. Additionally, assessing implementation challenges based on a critical success factor approach can help organizations overcome common issues and lead the project to success. These challenges include barriers such as unsupportive top management, ineffective stakeholders, PMO inefficiency, insufficient project planning, and factors related to people. By tackling these challenges, organizations can build a solid foundation for their projects and ensure they are on the right track to accomplish their goals.

Getting Started With Multi-site Research: Lessons From the Eliminating Monitor Overuse (EMO) Study.

Research in Pediatric Hospital Medicine is growing and expanding rapidly, and with this comes the need to expand single-site research projects into multisite research studies within practice-based research networks. This expansion is crucial to ensure generalizable findings in diverse populations; however, expanding Pediatric Hospital Medicine research projects from single to multisite can be daunting. We provide an overview of major logistical steps and challenges in project management, regulatory approvals, data use agreements, training, communication, and financial management that are germane to hospitalist researchers launching their first multisite project by sharing processes and lessons learned from running multisite research projects in the Pediatric Research in Inpatient Settings Network within the Eliminating Monitor Overuse study portfolio. This description is relevant to hospitalist researchers transitioning from single-site to multisite research or those considering serving as site lead for a multisite project.

Enhancing IT Hybrid Projects in The Directorate General Of Customs And Excise of Indonesia: An Improvement Process

The Directorate General of Customs and Excise (DJBC) confronts mounting challenges due to the expanding international trade. To address this issue, an optimal software solution is required for efficient service provision and supervision of transactions. However, the completion of IS projects faces significant delays, with only 25% reaching completion despite the immediate need for a reliable system. These delays stem from various problems encountered during project execution. This research employs the Kerzner Project Management Maturity Model to assess the IS project management maturity level at DJBC and categorise the identified problems. Subsequently, solutions extracted from PMBOK 7 are mapped to address these issues. Findings indicate an average maturity score of 390, falling short of the target of 600 required for level 1 maturity. Additionally, 13 problems have been identified and linked to solutions within the seven standards/domains of PMBOK 7. The research presents two strategic goals: improving project management processes and enhancing client satisfaction, assessed using seven measurement indicators. This study offers valuable insights for DJBC to address project management challenges, enhance maturity levels, and achieve desired outcomes.

Exploring Cost Variability and Risk Management Optimization in Natural Disaster Prevention Projects

The purpose of this study is to analyze the causes of cost variation in natural disaster prevention projects (NDPPs) in Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea, and develop tailored cost and risk management strategies. Utilizing a binary logistic regression model, this research uniquely focuses on the Gyeongsangbuk-do region, gathering data from 244 stakeholders through an online survey. The study identifies critical variables influencing cost deviation, including project management risk (PMR), project costing and execution risk (PCER), project execution strategy risk (PESR), construction project risk (CPR), project cost and schedule risk (PCSR), project management challenges (PMCs), and construction project subcontractor and safety management (CPSSM). Significant findings revealed PMR (OR = 3.744, 95% C.I. [1.657, 8.457]), PCER (OR = 5.068, 95% C.I. [2.236, 11.484]), and PESR (OR = 3.447, 95% C.I. [1.853, 6.413]) as the primary causes of cost deviation, alongside the notable impacts of other factors such as CPSSM. The developed predictive model is instrumental for NDPP stakeholders in Gyeongsangbuk-do, providing advanced risk management capabilities and aiding in effective preventive measures. This study not only corroborates theoretical hypotheses from previous research but also offers new insights into cost deviation causes in NDPPs, thereby enhancing strategic decision-making and advancing risk management perspectives.