Enhancing the quality of project management through action research

Abstract

PurposeThe article brings the quality characteristics of action research to project management and explores how these quality characteristics of well-designed and executed action research can inform and enhance the practice of project management.Design/methodology/approachA reflective paper.FindingsThe article identifies five imperatives in bringing together action research and project management. The authors argue that project management may be conducted in a manner that is rigorous, reflective and relevant.Research limitations/implicationsThe integration of project management and action research is not empirically described. Therefore, researchers are encouraged to test and further develop the model in relation to the design and management of projects.Practical implicationsPractical questions are posed for implementation.Social implicationsThe integration of action research and project management is a collaborative venture and the engagement imperative emphasizes that collaboration.Originality/valueBy bringing together action research and project management the article integrates five imperatives: design, engagement, improvement, action and research and quality characteristics of action research to enhance project management as rigorous, reflective and relevant.