Good theory: developing a foundation for project management. (7th July 2008)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Jugdev, Kam
• Is Part Of: International journal of product development. Volume 6:Number 2(2008)
• Page Start: 177
• Page End: 189
• Publication Date: 2008-07-07
• Subjects: epistemology -- ontology -- project management -- philosophy of science -- research -- theory -- collaboration; New products -- Periodicals; Technological innovations -- Periodicals; Research, Industrial -- Periodicals; 658.57505
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1477-9056

Abstract

Project management is in its infancy when it comes to developing a theoretical foundation. Unless we develop a theoretical foundation, we run the risk of furthering the discipline in an atheoretical and ascientific way. In this paper, we frame the importance of collaboration between academics and practitioners in developing project management theory. We then discuss the challenges of developing a theoretical foundation and review the progress we have made in developing theories in project management. The paper concludes with suggestions on how to improve project management theory.