Sources of project tool misalignment in multistakeholder projects

Abstract

Inter-organizational collaboration is recognized as one of the key success factors for complex project delivery. Simultaneously, tools and technologies play a growing role in project management and operations, especially as project work is increasingly being conducted in hybrid and remote settings. These tools play a critical role in achieving productive collaboration, and when properly selected, implemented, and aligned, they offer opportunities for increased project productivity. However, the selection of correct tools can be tricky, and at worst, tools can end up hampering project operations. This study empirically identifies key project tool-related challenges and clarifies the role of tools in relation to stakeholder collaboration. The results emphasize two-dimensional alignment for the selection and implementation of tools: by aligning with both project objectives and the teams executing the project, tools are better set to fulfill their role as a link that supports project organization toward its goals and fosters productive inter-organizational collaboration.