International Journal of Project Organisation and Management (6 papers in press)

Regular Issues

• Big Data Adoption in Public Infrastructure Projects  
  by Alejandro Romero-Torres, Julie Delisle, Monique Aubry 
  Abstract: Research on projects has highlighted big data as a tool to better understand project characteristics and its dynamics. To maximise these benefits, organisations collaborate to create common big data repositories. However, public infrastructure projects do not seem to have adopted this technological innovation. Based on a pluralist perception of organisational effectiveness, this paper aims to explain how project actors differing perceptions affect big data adoption. We identify and classify the perceived benefits and challenges related to adopting big data. Findings highlight that perceptions vary as a function of the organisations position in public projects, but also of its organisational values. This research conceptualises perceptions of big data adoption, identifying three specific organisational tensions learning, performing, and organising all of which underlie an overarching belonging tension. This paper underscores the need for collaborative management of these tensions to fully leverage big datas potential, improve decision-making, and enhance project management practices.
  Keywords: Big data; public projects; technology adoption; organisational tensions; CVF framework; tensions.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJPOM.2025.10069631
   
  
• A Systems Approach to Project Stakeholder Management: Evaluating Influence and Correlation in Complex Projects  
  by Siegfried Zuern, Viridiana Maily Harr 
  Abstract: Effective stakeholder management is crucial for the success of complex projects, as it ensures that all parties' interests and influences are adequately addressed and harmonized. Traditional methods of stakeholder management, however, often fall short in adequately addressing the dynamic and multifaceted nature of stakeholder interactions within complex project environments. These conventional tools tend to be linear and static, failing to capture the evolving and interconnected nature of stakeholder relationships. This paper provides a thorough analysis of the inherent limitations associated with classical stakeholder management tools. Furthermore, it proposes a Systems Thinking approach as a comprehensive and robust alternative. By incorporating Systems Thinking principles, project managers can more effectively navigate the intricate web of stakeholder relationships, thereby enhancing the overall project outcomes and ensuring sustainable success.
  Keywords: Stakeholder Management; Stakeholder Relationships; Complexity; Systems Thinking; Simulation; Interdependency Network; Project Environment.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJPOM.2025.10070080
   
  
• A Qualitative Study on the Role of Team Flow Experience in R&D Project Teams  
  by Kiran Govind V. , Sumati Sidharth 
  Abstract: This study examines the factors influencing team flow within R&D project teams in a defence laboratory, providing fresh theoretical insights into this under-explored phenomenon. Through qualitative content analysis of interviews with R&D professionals, the research makes three significant contributions: (a) it identifies previously unrecognized factors while corroborating established ones that nurture or hinder team flow, (b) it offers a novel understanding of how team members in R&D settings experience and manifest team flow, and (c) it explores the multidimensional effects of team flow across micro (individual), meso (team), and macro (organizational) levels. By addressing gaps in existing literature, the study enriches theoretical perspectives on team dynamics in R&D environments. The findings emphasise that fostering team flow can lead to improved performance, enhanced innovation, and greater well-being among team members. These insights underscore the strategic importance of cultivating team flow to optimize outcomes in high-stakes, innovation-driven R&D projects.
  Keywords: Team flow experience; R&D project teams; IMOI model; Team effectiveness; 5R framework; Team performance; Team processes; Team emergent states; Effects of team flow.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJPOM.2025.10070296
   
  
• A Social Network Analysis-Based Approach for Modelling and Analysing Dependencies among Requirements in New Software Development Projects  
  by Hamdi Bashir, Messa Alhammadi, Udechukwu Ojiako, M. Shamsuzzaman, Salah Haridy 
  Abstract: Previous studies proposed several methods to model and analyse the dependencies within software requirements (SRs) in development projects. For practical purposes, teams developing software require simple tools that assist in mapping and assessing the relationships between SRs during the initial stages of development. Considering the limitations of previous works, this study suggests adopting a social network analysis-based approach. This approach enables development teams to analyse and visualise the relationships between SRs, offering a holistic view of SR interactions and aiding in identifying the most critical SRs along with their paths of change propagation. As a result, this approach facilitates effective and efficient change management, reducing cost risks and lead-time overruns in projects. The practicality of this approach is demonstrated through its application in modelling and analysing 28 SRs in a real-world software development project.
  Keywords: Requirements; change; dependency; software project management; modelling; social network analysis.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJPOM.2025.10070869
   
  
• Moderating Effects of Project Environment on Financial Risk Management and Safety of Road Construction Projects in Kenya  
  by Kirui Nicholas, Charles M. Rambo, Luketero W. Stephen 
  Abstract: Infrastructure development spurs economic growth, hence maintaining safety standards in road construction projects is essential. Financial risks, including fluctuating exchange rates and interest rates compound these challenges, making effective financial risk management essential. This study employs a mixed-methods approach, obtaining quantitative and qualitative data from various stakeholders involved in road projects by the Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA), Nairobi County. The research reveals a strong positive relationship between financial risk management and safety outcomes. Effective financial risk management, like use of financial risk registers and management of liquidity and inflation risks significantly enhances road construction safety. Project environment, encompassing political, economic, technological, and environmental factors, moderates this relationship. Key diagnostic tests affirm the robustness of the study's regression models, indicating no significant heteroskedasticity or multicollinearity. The findings underscore the importance of integrating comprehensive financial risk management practices and understanding of the project environment to optimise safety in road construction projects.
  Keywords: Construction; environment; finance; management; project; risk; road; safety.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJPOM.2025.10070879
   
  
• Effect of Tender Evaluation Process on Performance of Public Construction Projects  
  by Mordecai Matto, Joseph Magali 
  Abstract: Using a Tanzanian case, this study examined the effect of the tender evaluation process on the performance of public construction projects. The survey strategy was applied to collect data from 205 members of user departments from the Institute of Accountancy Arusha. The data analysis technique was performed using partial least squares structural equation modelling with the help of Smart PLS 4 software. The findings disclosed that the technical examination and financial examination of tenders are significantly associated with the performance of public construction projects. Though most previous studies paid attention to contract execution attributes, this study suggests that tender evaluation attributes are also required to attain the best performance in public construction projects. Theoretically, the results demonstrate that the shortcomings in the technical and financial examination of tenders may cause adverse selection, moral hazard signalling, and ultimately inadequate project performance.
  Keywords: tender evaluation process; performance of public construction projects; agency theory; commercial examination; technical examination; financial examination.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJPOM.2025.10070951