Mapping the Complexity of International Development Projects Using DEMATEL Technique

Abstract

International development (ID) projects are characterized by their intangible and complex project goals, involvement of several stakeholders, and cultural diversity. These specific features have contributed to increased overall project complexity, resulting in the failure of most ID projects worldwide. This study developed a new assessment method specifically aimed at grasping complexity variables in infrastructure ID projects. Content analysis, a two-round Delphi study, and group discussion were conducted to identify 12 significant complexity variables. The interrelationships among these variables were captured through the decision making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) method. The analysis results highlighted dynamic interrelationships among complexity variables, where a change in one relationship might loop back to affect the original. The complexity map and causal diagram showed that administrative procedure, site compensation and clearance, and project duration are the three most important complexity variables in terms of their overall relationship with the others. The practical implication of this research is that practitioners should focus on complexity variables that have significant interactions with others if they want to effectively manage complexity in ID projects.