Project Management Competencies Research Articles

Project Manager's Competencies as Catalysts for Project Success: The Mediating Role of Functional Manager Involvement and Stakeholder Engagement

Project Manager's Competencies as Catalysts for Project Success: The Mediating Role of Functional Manager Involvement and Stakeholder Engagement

Project Management Competencies in AI-Driven Environments: A Qualitative Assessment

The objective of this paper is to provide an evaluation of project management skills and competence in AI-driven environments as an essential scope due to their pivotal role in producing effective outcomes in the fast-paced world of rapidly evolving technology. This study employs a cross-sectional research design and qualitative survey methodology to examine project management in the context of AI integration. The study involved a broad base, which includes players from various sectors like technology, finance, health, and manufacturing, so its findings and recommendations are all-encompassing. This study achieves this by utilizing datasets obtained from industry-leading AI companies, academic research institutions, and governmental agencies. These datasets comprise project management metrics, AI implementation case studies, and surveys conducted among project managers and stakeholders in AI-driven industries in addition to literature sources, using sophisticated statistical techniques. The findings show and present the changes that the practice of project management faces in the era of AI and provide the most helpful guidance for project managers, stakeholders, and organisations that strive to cope with this dynamic and changing environment. The research result shows that by emphasising skill-based development programmes, cultivating an innovation- friendly culture, and adopting AI-driven technologies, organisations can be at the forefront of technological growth, gaining a competitive advantage in the highly dynamic business environment. The research shows that in the future, the enhanced use of AI technologies will keep changing the project management landscape. This research strengthens the theoretical underpinnings of project management in AI-powered projects and ensures the enhancement of project management's actual efficacy in response to technological advancements. This will aid project managers deliver the most important skills necessary for effective project management in AI-driven environments.

Improving project management skills by integrating a boardgame into educational paths

The increasing demand for practical project management skills makes crucial the adoption of innovative educational approaches. This study presents an experiment carefully designed to assess the effectiveness of an innovative project management educational boardgame named PMBoG. Two samples from a class of university students, enrolled in a bachelor's degree management course, participated in the experiment. One sample joined PMBoG sessions playing with and against other colleagues, the other sample did not participate in the sessions. After game sessions, both groups took a project management test to evaluate their capacity to make decisions or countermeasures based on classical project management issues. The test also included a questionnaire about game evaluations and peer feedback. Preliminary analysis using multiple statistical tests (t-test, ANOVA, Tuckey and Effect Size) indicates that participants in the experimental group demonstrated statistically significant higher performance compared to those who did not participate in the game sessions. The results suggest that the adoption of PMBoG positively impacts on increase of students' project management competencies. The study underscores the importance of incorporating experience-based and student-centered education tools in project management education, enhancing students' readiness for real-world project scenarios.

The Effect of High Risk Behavior on Project Success in the Existence of Competency of Project Manager as a Moderator

Efficient project management is necessary for the success and survival of information technology sector of Pakistan in this rapidly changing technology era. The aim of the study is to check the complex relation among high risk behavior and success of projects in the information technology sector of Pakistan by keeping in place competency of project managers as a moderator. Consideration of efficient project management and rapidly technological changes is necessary for success of information technology sector as this sector is facing worldwide competitiveness and plenty of risk of failure. Instant study contains 330 sample size from information technology sector of Pakistan. Quantitative technique is used in this study. Theoretical framework of this study built on the relationship of high risk behavior, project manager competency and project success of information technology sector of Pakistan. The core motive of this study is to check the effect of high risk behavior in the projects on the success of information technology sector projects of Pakistan in the existence of competency of project managers as a moderator. Data analysis and findings of this study reflects that there is positive association among high risk behavior and success of information technology projects and competency of projects managers positively enhances this relationship. Both hypothesis of the study accepted. This study is important for both researchers and practitioners. From researchers’ point of view, it opens more avenues for further research and for practitioners it gave recommendations for enhancement of the success of the projects that ultimately leads to success of that organization.

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.

Influences of critical success factors on nonprofit outcomes of ODA education construction projects: a case of Vietnam

Purpose Official development assistance (ODA) education projects have played a crucial role in improving education and training fields in developing countries, but are often facing several considerable challenges (e.g. long implementation time). Thus, this study aims to identify critical success factors (CSFs) in ODA education projects and investigate the influences of CSFs on ODA project performance measured by 11 nonprofit outcomes (NPOs). Design/methodology/approach A comprehensive literature review and expert interviews were conducted to compile a list of 35 potential success factors for ODA education projects. Using a survey questionnaire, 143 valid responses were collected from practitioners joining ODA projects in Vietnam. Various statistical methods (e.g. mean score method, Spearman rank correlation test, analysis of variance test, factor analysis and regression analysis) were used to analyze the collected data. Findings This research identified seven CSFs for ODA education projects in Vietnam: comprehensive project management competency (C1), clarity and compliance in project execution (C2), transparency and committed funding (C3), external context conditions (C4), well-controlled design and project management procedures (C5), preparations in equipment and complexity insight (C6) and punctual site delivery (C7). Furthermore, the results of regression analysis indicated that comprehensive project management competency (C1) and transparency and committed funding (C3) could significantly affect various NPOs. Originality/value This study offers significant insights for practitioners (e.g. project managers) to improve ODA projects’ performance and effectiveness in the education and training sector of a developing country context (like Vietnam).

The effect of project managers’ competencies on project success with mediating role of project stakeholders’ engagement: A case of IT sector

Purpose – The goal of this study is to determine and identify the nature of Project Managers’ Competencies (Emotional Intelligence & Cognitive Flexibility) on Project Success (Time, Cost & Scope) mediating the role of Project Stakeholders’ Engagement (Internal Stakeholders Engagement & External Stakeholders Engagement) in the sector of Information Sector of Lahore. In this paper we are targeting the Project Manager, team Leaders & Portfolio Manager of IT Sector in which they are involve to manage different types of Projects. Data collection was conducted using a quantitative survey which obtained valid 367 responses for the analysis. Regression Analysis, Correlation Analysis and MARCO Haya’s Process was used to find out the results. The study confirmed that overall project success in IT sector is highly associated with the Project Managers Competencies and mediating by the Project Stakeholders Engagement. This research builds on previous studies by providing further evidence that the Project Manager Competencies and Project Stakeholders Engagement on Project Success. These findings can help fund further studies of future development endeavours and also support the Theory of Freeman regarding the Stakeholders Engagement.

THE EFFECT OF PROJECT MANAGER COMPETENCE ON THE ACHIEVEMENT OF CONSTRUCTION PROJECT PERFORMANCE

The development of the construction services sector in Indonesia continues to experience rapid growth, encouraging construction industry players to have quality human resources. This research aims to identify project manager competency factors on construction projects in Banda Aceh City, analyse the relationship between these and project performance achievements, and evaluate their influence on construction project performance achievements in Banda Aceh City. The object of this research is the competency factors of project managers that influence construction project performance. This research was conducted at contractor companies domiciled in the Banda Aceh City area. The data sources used in this research are primary data and secondary data. The population of contractors at small, medium and large qualification levels is 71 contractors. The total sample was 42 contractors. The sampling technique used was purposive sampling. The variables used in this research include the independent variable (X) and the dependent variable (Y). The data analysis used in this research is descriptive, simple correlation analysis and multiple linear regression analysis. The research results show that knowledge, skills, and attitudes have a solid relationship. In contrast, management has a high relationship with project performance achievement. Overall, the project manager's competency factor significantly affects project performance, reaching 94.9%. Management is the most dominant competency factor influencing the achievement of project performance in Banda Aceh City. Thus, increasing the competence of project managers, especially in management, is expected to improve the quality of construction project implementation in the region.

Enhancing Project Performance through Effective Team Communication: A Comprehensive Study Integrating Project Management Quotient, Trust, and Management Information Systems

The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between project manager competence and project performance with the mediating role of team communication, employee trust, employee capability and team atmosphere. To achieve its objectives, this study used a quantitative research approach. Data was collected from 175 employees working on various projects in China. A structured questionnaire was used to collect the data from the respondents. All items were measured on a five-point Likert scale adapted from previous studies. Collected data was analyzed by using SPSS. The findings of the study showed that the performance of a project is significantly affected by the competencies of project managers. Moreover, the findings also showed that this relationship is significantly and positively mediated by team communication, employee trust, employee capability and team atmosphere. The findings show that the effectiveness of project manager competencies in enhancing project performance is influenced by these mediating factors which contribute to the success of the project. This research contributes to the theoretical understanding of project management by highlighting the multifaceted nature of project performance. It underscores the importance of holistic project management practices, where emphasis on both project manager competence and team dynamics is essential. Practically, the study offers insights for organizations and project managers, emphasizing the need for comprehensive skill development and fostering positive team environments. This study's originality lies in its comprehensive exploration of the mediating roles within the context of project manager competence and its implications in a globalized business environment.

The Erosion of Competencies in Managing Innovation Projects due to the Impact of Ubiquitous Artificial Intelligence Systems

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) systems has had a profound impact on various aspects of business and technology. One area greatly influenced by AI is innovation project management, which plays a critical role in driving organizational growth and success. The purpose of the paper examines the erosion of competencies in innovation project management as a consequence of the increasing reliance on AI systems. The object is innovation project management relying on the expertise, experience, and decision-making capabilities of human managers. However, the introduction of AI systems in project management processes has brought about significant changes. AI-powered tools and algorithms can automate tasks, analyse vast amounts of data, and provide valuable insights and recommendations. While this presents numerous benefits, it also raises concerns about the diminishing role of human competencies in managing innovation projects. AI systems require vast amounts of training data to operate effectively. In the process, they might overlook or undervalue the tacit knowledge and domain expertise possessed by human project managers. The results emphasize the need for project managers to develop new competencies, such as understanding AI capabilities, interpreting AI-generated insights, and effectively integrating AI systems into project workflows. To mitigate the erosion of competencies, organizations should invest in training programs that equip project managers with the necessary skills to work alongside AI systems. Recognizing these challenges and proactively addressing them through training, collaboration, and a balanced approach to human-AI interaction is crucial for organizations seeking to leverage AI while maintaining a high level of project management expertise.

Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis of Project Management Competencies—A Case Study of Pakistani Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)

Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis of Project Management Competencies—A Case Study of Pakistani Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)

Analysis of Agile Project Manager Competencies From Recruitment Signals

Analysis of Agile Project Manager Competencies From Recruitment Signals

Project management for sustainable development: Critical determinants of technological competency for project managers with smart technologies

AbstractTo achieve sustainable development in the construction industry through effective management of projects implementing smart technologies, the technological competency of project managers (PMs) has become increasingly important. This study aims to: (i) investigate the significant attributes of PMs' technological competency when implementing smart technologies for effective project management; (ii) develop a Technological Competency Framework (TCF) for PMs; and (iii) assess critical determinants in the TCF. To achieve these objectives, the attributes of PMs' technological competency and their relative importance were investigated and assessed through a comprehensive literature review, expert interviews, a structured questionnaire survey and statistical analyses. The results showed that the identified attributes in TCF were statistically significant, with project management knowledge, personal characteristics, and skills in managing projects having the highest priority. This study enriches the knowledge of technological competency for PMs in project management and provides guidance for the industry to implement smart technologies for sustainable development.

Development Of Micro Credential Design For Project Management To Improve The Quality Of Engineering Practices

The integration of engineering practices with project management responsibilities is commonplace in the field, offering an effective solution for executing engineering projects. However, the unique discipline of project management poses a challenge, revealing a limitation in the quality of human resources with expertise in both engineering and project management. This study aims to address this gap by developing a Project Management Micro-Credential Design to formally recognize engineers possessing project management competencies. Employing the Rapid Assessment Process (RAP) integrated with the Regional Model Competency Standard (RMCS), the research outlines a comprehensive design for the development of a micro-credential in engineering project management. Key components of the design include a competency-based skill set development model, an instructional design system for quality assurance, an outcome-based learning and teaching delivery structure (OBLT), a competency-based assessment (CBA) development framework, and an operational structure for micro-credential implementation. This designed framework is adaptable for application within Professional Organizations and Professional Education of Engineers, accommodating both integrated and packaged formats, such as the Indonesian Student Micro-Credential (KMMI). The study contributes to bridging the gap in project management expertise among engineers, presenting a structured approach to enhance their competencies and recognition within the engineering profession.

Competencies and Capabilities for the Management of Sustainable Rural Development Projects in the Value Chain: Perception from Small and Medium-Sized Business Agents in Jauja, Peru

The guinea pig value chain in Jauja, Peru, has been developed through the application of productive projects, institutional strengthening, and implementation of the Principles of Responsible Investment in Agriculture and Food Systems (CFS-RAI). Given the smallholding conditions of the Jauja territory and the proliferation of commercial guinea pig breeding, the actors in this chain constitute a key human capital for development. To improve the performance of the actors in the sustainable rural development of the territory of Jauja, Peru, the research carried out an evaluation of the competencies and capabilities for project management in 46 actors linked to the business programme on the CFS-RAI Principles, representing 1094 people in the guinea pig value chain in Jauja, using the Working With People (WWP) model and empirical instruments based on the Octagon method, project management competence evaluation, performance evaluation carried out by experts, attitudinal evaluation. and the Business Model Canvas. The results have helped to structure the actors of the value chain, who show an intermediate mastery of project management competencies (2.73/5), institutional capabilities in development (2.89/7), and a growing organisational management performance (26.2/100). In addition, trust and proactivity have been generated among the actors in the chain, with an interest in continuing with the implementation of the CFS-RAI Principles in order to achieve sustainability in their productive projects with commercial innovation. The results have allowed us to generate the design of an innovative programme for the development of competencies, which balances the three dimensions of project management competencies (perspective, people, and practice), as defined by the International Project Management Association (IPMA), in connection with the CFS-RAI Principles. Both processes complement the strengthening of human capital in agrifood value chains through sustainable project management and contributing to sustainable development in the region.

The Impact of Leader-Leader Exchange on Project Success in Non-profit Organisations

After many years of research on non-profit organisations (NPOs), the success rate of the projects they manage remains low. This is particularly due to the fact that the awareness of the need for project management competences to achieve project success is poor. This paper aims to close this awareness gap. The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationships between leader-leader exchange (LLX), sharing values, result orientation and personal communication as critical project management competences and their impact on project success in NPOs. The research which is based on social exchange and leadership theories, includes a testing of the research model and hypotheses using the structural equation modelling and bootstrap method. Data were collected during a survey organized in March-May 2023 that targeted more than 100 NPOs in order to apply the quantitative research method. The research findings indicate that the mediating variable “Result-Orientation” has a stronger impact on project success than the positive effect “leadership” and “sharing values” have on project success. However, the significance of leadership and sharing values for project success is increased by personal communication as an important moderating variable. The contribution to the science of this paper lies in the fact that the quantitative method was applied for the first time for the impact study with the chosen project management competences on project success. The practical relevance of the research is to encourage the adoption of social exchange and leadership theories in NPOs, to increase project contribution to civil society.

Contribution mechanisms of project managers’ behavioural competencies towards the success of oil and gas projects

The Oil and Gas (O&G) industry is complex and hazardous. Its development relies on projects, where project management is a human-centred profession. Therefore, competent project managers (PMs) play a crucial role in this dynamic industry. Existing literature has primarily focused on the quantitative impact of project managers’ competencies (PMCs) on project success (PS). However, there has been little attention given to understanding the ‘how’ behind the contributions of PMCs, specifically behavioural competencies (BCs), to PS. As a result, this research aims to explore the perspectives of PMs regarding the contributions of BCs to the success of projects in the O&G industry. This paper takes an interpretive stance. Data was gathered through twenty semi-structured interviews with PMs from a refinery in the Kingdom of Bahrain and analysed using thematic analysis with the aid of NVIVO 12. The study revealed the ways in which BCs contribute to project success in the O&G industry. Five distinct mechanisms were identified for BCs’ contributions to PS: fostering team cohesiveness, enhancing work clarity, controlling project activities, conveying technical competencies, and advancing PMs’ careers. This study was conducted in an under-researched industry within a developing country and has provided a deeper understanding of the means by which BCs contribute to PS, rather than merely presenting them as an extensive ‘shopping list’.

Analyzing the impact of Consultant and Project Manager Competencies on Business Performance Mediated by Consulting Performance

Analyzing the impact of Consultant and Project Manager Competencies on Business Performance Mediated by Consulting Performance

Innovative instruments for increasing the efficiency of human resources management of IT-companies

The mechanism of improving the efficiency of human resources management at IT-companies updates the implementation of innovative management tools in the processes of hiring, developing, and evaluating their employees. The goal of the work is to deepen the theoretical and conceptual foundations of the effectiveness of HR management at IT-companies in the social and labor context and to develop scientific and applied recommendations regarding the mechanism of its enhancement in the conditions of formation of a new economy. Measures outlined in the paper to apply the competency approach, to introduce the talent management algorithm on a systematic basis, and to develop the system of key performance indicators should be considered as a component of scientific and practical recommendations for improving the efficiency of human resources management in IT enterprises in the social and labor dimension. In order to improve the efficiency of human resources management at IT enterprises, it is necessary to develop and introduce a perfect mechanism as a systemic integrity of economic, social, and organizational processes of creating preconditions for innovative development of the enterprise as a benefit for the employer and decent work as a benefit for the employees. The scientific platform of the theoretical and applied construct of such a mechanism should be the managerial paradigm of harmonization of social and labor relations, and its internal architectonics should be formed in compliance with the values of corporate social responsibility and contain innovative tools in the format of the goals and results management system in contrast to the functions management system. On the basis of understanding of the essence and regulatory consolidation of competencies as the ability of a person to perform a certain type of activity, the model of functional and behavioral competencies of the IT project manager is developed, the trajectory of development of talents in the field of computer programming is given, the methodological basis of construction and the algorithm of development of the key system are developed and performance indicators are implemented.

Identifying Factors Influencing Time and Cost Overruns in Public Construction Projects in Bhutan

Construction industries worldwide are impacted by time and cost overruns, resulting in significant financial loss and failure to complete projects on time. Clients, contractors, and consultants can plan properly for public construction projects if they have a better understanding of cost and time overruns. The Construction Development Board (now Bhutan Construction and Transport Authority) is the lead agency regulating and overseeing the government construction projects in Bhutan. However, in recent four years, from July 2017 to June 2021, about 50% of the total 2111 government construction projects experienced time and cost overruns, and the total financial loss was Nu. 2,578.86 million. Therefore, study was designed to examine the factors causing delays and cost escalations in the construction project implemented by government during the financial year July 2017 to June 2021. Thus, this study explores identifying factors influencing time and cost overruns to avoid time delays and financial losses. The primary data was collected through the questionnaire survey from engineers of 20 Dzongkhags and 4 Thromdes. The secondary data was collected from the CDB's annual reports, the Construction Association of Bhutan (CAB), and the National Statistics Bureau (NSB). The data was analyzed using the descriptive statistics method, and the relative importance index (RII) was calculated to rank the factors identified from literature reviews. The research results show that financial issue was the critical factor causing delays and cost escalation in the government construction project in Bhutan. Followed by the issue of delays and cost overruns due to shortage of local construction materials, inadequate experience of the contractor, poor site planning, shortage of skilled workers, unrealistic schedule, design change, contractual issues, and project manager competence.