Evaluation of the Impact of Collaboration and Integration on Performance of Industrial Projects

Abstract

Large-scale industrial projects are challenging due to high degrees of complexity, multiple stakeholders with differing business objectives, evolving technology, building in adverse environments, and other difficulties. As a result, they can be seen as high-risk business ventures. Collaborative project delivery strategies such as integrated project delivery (IPD) have been used to manage and mitigate risks associated with delivery of projects in other sectors such as commercial buildings in the United States. This project delivery method focuses on enhanced collaboration and integration to reduce uncertainty and increase the chances of project success. This paper evaluates the change in industrial project performance as collaboration and integration are increased. The research is based on the results of a survey of 85 experienced industrial project management professionals. The survey output was used to develop a quantitative index that measures the level of collaboration and integration during project delivery. The paper finds a statistically significant correlation between the degree of collaboration and integration increases and project performance, meaning projects experiencing a higher level of collaboration and integration have a stronger and more predictable correlation with better project performance. The research findings provide evidence to suggest industrial project performance certainty is improved by increased collaboration and integration, demonstrating industrial projects are good candidates for a more integrated project delivery method.