Work

Project Management Methodologies of International Development Agencies and the Concept of Sustainable Project Management

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: ABSTRACT This research explores to what extent the ideas and notions of sustainable project management (SPM) are reflected in the project management methodologies of three selected international development agencies. A conceptual framework is developed, and a deductive content analysis is performed. The findings reveal varying degrees of integration across the agencies and different aspects of SPM. Key aspects such as social and environmental sustainability, the consideration of a broad time horizon, cocreation, and knowledge management are consistently emphasized. Conversely, aspects of SPM related to resource management and procurement, as well as the project team, are underrepresented. Issues like waste reduction as well as reduction of emissions and pollution receive no attention. The research contributes to an improved understanding of how sustainability is embedded in development cooperation and offers insights for strengthening the alignment of project management in development cooperation and SPM.

Source: Sustainable Development

DOI: 10.1002/sd.70895

Authors: Jan Christoph Albrecht, Paula Adams, Carsten Wolff, Rao Aamir Ali Khan, Saara Sheneen

Institutions: Dortmund University of Applied Sciences and Arts, COMSATS University Islamabad

Language: English

Topic: International Development and Aid

Subfield: Development

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Partnerships for the goals

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,250