Critical success criteria and success factors in project management: A quest to enhance generic professional practice

Purpose of this paper Research was undertaken to move beyond the generally accepted generic knowledge areas and processes in order to evaluate and rank the critical success criteria (the ‘what’ to be achieved) and the success factors (the ‘how’ to achieve) in built environment project management. Problem investigated To establish if the success criteria and factors in built environment project management may be quantified, ranked and interpreted to improve project management practice. Methodology This study is founded on an investigation by Prof. Sr. Wan Maimun Wan Abdullah and Prof. Sr. Dr. Ahmad Ramly in Malaysia. The study is supported by a literature survey and the collection of primary data by way of questionnaires. The latter is the same as what was used in a Malaysian study. The questionnaires were completed by several groups of delegates taking part in continuing education project management programmes, as well as by members of the Association of Construction Project Managers in South Africa. Findings The findings confirmed that the critical success criteria and factors in built environment project management can be measured, ranked and evaluated. Value Will be added by future comparative analysis between South Africa and Malaysia, and possibly other countries. 2 Critical Success Criteria and Success Factors in Project Management Conclusion This research adds to project management knowledge in the built environment, beyond the cornerstone generic project management knowledge areas and processes.