The identification of temporary horizontal leaders in projects: The case of China. Issue 1 (January 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Müller, Ralf; Zhu, Fangwei; Sun, Xiuxia; Wang, Linzhuo; Yu, Miao
• Is Part Of: International journal of project management. Volume 36:Issue 1(2018)
• Page Start: 95
• Page End: 107
• Publication Date: 2018-01
• Subjects: Horizontal leadership -- Vertical leadership -- Identification of leaders -- Project team member; Project management -- Periodicals; Network analysis (Planning) -- Periodicals; 658.40405
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijproman.2017.05.011
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0263-7863

Abstract

Abstract: Balanced leadership in projects describes the dynamic transition of leadership authority between the project manager and one or more team members. Within this concept, the present study investigates the context, criteria, and processes for identifying project team members as candidates for the role of horizontal leader. Five case studies, followed by validation interviews were conducted in China. Results show that structure and agency by the project manager set the context, wherein professionality, personality and attitudinal characteristics of team members are evaluated for identification. This is executed in two parallel processes, where the project manager evaluates, develops and assesses candidates, and the team members evaluate their situation, compete with others, develop their skills, and look for guidance from the project manager. Managerial and theoretical implications are discussed. Highlights: The dynamic transition between horizontal and vertical leadership in projects is investigated The related enabling context variables are identified The criteria for identification of horizontal leaders are developed The processes for identification of horizontal leaders are developed