Title: Project complexity management: research trends and the way forward

Authors: Parnika Singh Yadav; Virendra Kumar Paul

Addresses: Department of Building Engineering and Management, School of Planning and Architecture, New Delhi, India ' School of Planning and Architecture, New Delhi, India; FRICS, FIHE Hon. FIFE(I), Center for Fire Studies Department of Building Engineering and Management, New Delhi, India

Abstract: The issue of poor performance in terms of time and cost overruns of the projects is defined as an outcome of the emerging complexities associated with construction projects. The current paper investigates the research trends and patterns in the field of construction project complexity assessment and management. The research encompasses a methodical analysis using bibliometric analysis of significant academic publications in project complexity management. The major findings of the study include the limitations of existing complexity theories, potential determinants of project complexity and assessment models. The need for specifying complexity specific to project typologies, integration of complexity theories with existing project management practice are identified in this study. Further, this paper attempts to conceptualise a theoretical project complexity assessment and management model associated with complex construction projects.

Keywords: complexity; projects; project management; frameworks; factors; complexity management; systematic review.

DOI: 10.1504/IJICBM.2025.148927

International Journal of Indian Culture and Business Management, 2025 Vol.36 No.2, pp.222 - 242

Received: 23 Feb 2023
Accepted: 25 Aug 2023
Published online: 03 Oct 2025 *

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