Project management and its effects on project success: Cross-country and cross-industry comparisons

This study aims to investigate the effects of project management (PM) on project success under the parameters of scheduling, cost, and margins. We adopt a contingency approach that evaluates the complexity of the project, according to 4 categories, the effect of industry sector and countries. The methodological approach involved a longitudinal field survey in 3 countries (Argentina, Brazil, and Chile) with business units from 10 different industries over a 3-year period, and data from a total of 1387 projects were analyzed. Structural equation modeling was used to test the research hypotheses. The results show a significant and positive relationship between the response variable schedule with PM enablers and project management efforts in training and capabilities development. Project complexity has a significant effect on 2 aspects of project success: margin and schedule. Both cross-country and cross-industry analyses show a significant explanatory effect. •Data were obtained for 1387 projects from 10 different market sectors.•Empirical data suggests significant differences across countries and sectors.•The results show a positive relationship between PM enablers and schedule.•The results show a positive relationship between PM efforts and schedule.•Project complexity has a significant effect on margin and schedule indicators.