Title: Navigating project success in infrastructure sector: broadening the lens of the traditional triple constraints of time, cost, and scope

Authors: Naresh Gupta; Indra Gunawan; Rajeev Kamineni

Addresses: Adelaide Business School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide 5005 (SA), Australia ' Adelaide Business School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide 5005 (SA), Australia ' Adelaide Business School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide 5005 (SA), Australia

Abstract: This research revisits the conventional understanding of project success within the infrastructure sector by distinguishing between project management success and comprehensive project success. It explores whether integrating the triple constraints of time, cost, and scope is sufficient or if broader objectives and stakeholder alignment are equally vital. Employing an exploratory approach, this study draws insights from case studies selected through purposeful sampling and observational techniques. Data are gathered from diverse secondary sources, including peer-reviewed journals, articles, books, government/ corporate reports. The findings reveal that while meeting traditional triple constraints signifies project management success, it does not guarantee overall success. Comprehensive success reflects alignment with stakeholder expectations and organisational performance standards. The study contributes to the literature by highlighting the need for a holistic evaluation of project success, encouraging alignment with societal and environmental goals, and providing guidance for sustainable infrastructure development. It empowers project managers with deeper insight into success.

Keywords: triple constraints; project success framework; quality triangle; project management success; infrastructure projects; stakeholder alignment.

DOI: 10.1504/IJPOM.2026.151971

International Journal of Project Organisation and Management, 2026 Vol.18 No.1, pp.1 - 23

Received: 16 Aug 2024
Accepted: 19 May 2025
Published online: 28 Feb 2026 *

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