Work

Identifying the Drivers of Stakeholder Complexity in Projects: Case Studies from South African Infrastructure Projects

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Understanding stakeholder complexity remains a critical yet underexplored challenge in project management, particularly in public infrastructure projects where competing agendas and power asymmetries often determine success or failure. This study investigates stakeholder complexity through a comparative analysis of three municipal projects in South Africa. The findings reveal indicators of complexity related to stakeholder roles, agendas, power, and influence networks. These indicators help practitioners recognize when adaptive and intensive engagement strategies are required, bridging the gap between conceptual stakeholder models and their practical application in contested project environments.

Source: Project Management Journal

DOI: 10.1177/87569728251414601

Authors: Louise Worsley, Mark Massyn

Institution: University of Cape Town

Language: English

Topic: Construction Project Management and Performance

Subfield: Management Science and Operations Research

Field: Decision Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Peace, justice, and strong institutions

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,900