A project management research framework integrating multiple theoretical perspectives and influencing factors

Projects are different from standard organizational processes. Because they are temporary organizations and they have a unique nature, projects are characterized by discontinuous personal constellations and work contents. The increasing projectification of the business world corresponds with a high diversity of theoretical perspectives used in project management research. This diversity is reflected by a variety of influencing factors, which have been the subject of empirical studies. This article aims to systemize the different streams of research based on a literature review and at developing a research framework by integrating multiple theoretical perspectives and influencing factors. The crosslinks between the perspectives and identify fundamental elements of a project management theory are discussed. The framework consists of three dimensions: design, context, and goal. Its purpose is to support the combination of different perspectives and the development of strategies for further research. The article intends to simulate research in areas that have been underdeveloped up to now and may be used to integrate new insights into the existing body of knowledge as well as to intensify the exchange between researchers.