Analysing the organizational factors of project complexity using structural equation modelling

• Published in: International journal of project management Vol. 33; no. 1; pp. 165 - 176
• Main Authors: Qureshi, Sheheryar Mohsin, Kang, ChangWook
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Kidlington Elsevier Ltd 01.01.2015; Elsevier Science Ltd
• Subjects: Complex systems; Complexity; Complexity factors modelling; Criteria; Discriminant analysis; Handling; Management theory; Mathematical analysis; Mathematical models; Modelling; Organizational complexity; Project complexity; Project management; Structural equation modelling; Studies; Project complexity; Structural equation modelling; Complexity factors modelling; Organizational complexity
• ISSN: 0263-7863; 1873-4634
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijproman.2014.04.006

The advancements in the field of project management have driven researchers to take heed of numerous issues related with evaluating and managing complexity in projects, which demonstrates the evident significance of the subject. Among several key factors, organizational factors make up a large portion of project complexity as previous research confirms. While several project complexity measures do exist, every measure has its limit and evaluates project complexity from its own criteria. Furthermore, existing literature lacks modelling of these organizational factors to explore the interrelationships among them. This study aims to identify and model these factors to assist project managers in handling organizational factors of project complexity in a more regulated fashion. The model is developed using structural equation modelling technique. Findings include the noticeable effect of project size on project complexity as well as other factors. Positive effects of project variety and the interdependencies on project complexity are also observed. •We model organizational factors of project complexity.•We examine interrelationships among these factors and measure them.•Increased project variety will escalate project complexity.•Increased interdependencies within the project will escalate project complexity.•Project size indirectly affects project complexity.