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Exploring pattern of complexity in mega construction projects

Gizem Bilgin (Department of Civil Engineering, Middle East Technical University, Ankara, Turkey)
Huseyin Erol (Department of Civil Engineering, Hacettepe Universitesi, Ankara, Turkey)
Guzide Atasoy (Department of Civil Engineering, Middle East Technical University, Ankara, Turkey)
Irem Dikmen (School of the Built Environment, University of Reading, Reading, UK)
M. Talat Birgonul (Department of Civil Engineering, Middle East Technical University, Ankara, Turkey)

International Journal of Managing Projects in Business

ISSN: 1753-8378

Article publication date: 6 October 2022

Issue publication date: 7 November 2022

550

Abstract

Purpose

Megaprojects are known as complex projects that involve high levels of uncertainty. This interpretive study explores and portrays perceived complexity in mega construction projects by lived experiences of project managers.

Design/methodology/approach

This study utilises a ground theory approach to analyse data gathered from semi-structured interviews with 18 professionals involved in 11 megaprojects.

Findings

Complexity in mega construction projects is defined as a project property that stems from the interaction of project features, uncertain variables/conditions, and managerial actions forming a pattern, which emerges over time, based on the reflections of construction practitioners.

Originality/value

This study defines complexity based on the reflections of the practitioners in the construction industry and uniquely identifies complexity patterns that may have implications for project management, particularly risk management.

Keywords

Acknowledgements

This work was supported by the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey (TUBITAK), grant number 217M471. The authors express sincere thanks to TUBITAK and all experts who shared their knowledge with the research team.

Citation

Bilgin, G., Erol, H., Atasoy, G., Dikmen, I. and Birgonul, M.T. (2022), "Exploring pattern of complexity in mega construction projects", International Journal of Managing Projects in Business, Vol. 15 No. 7, pp. 1064-1090. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJMPB-03-2022-0064

Publisher

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Emerald Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2022, Emerald Publishing Limited

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