Modelling the effect of project cost management on project management performance: an application of SEM to Namibian MRCs

Government projects, particularly in developing economies, have continued to suffer setbacks leading to abysmal effectiveness and waste of resources. This study used a project management model to demonstrate how a project's time and quality performance can be improved by focusing on critical cost management elements. By developing and testing a structural equation model, the study analysed data collected in a survey involving 81 project management officers in selected Namibian Ministries and Regional Councils (MRCs). Results show that the cost analyses of previous projects and financial management implementations are critical components of project cost management that could significantly improve the time and quality performance of public sector projects in Namibia. Thus, the discipline to inculcate cost analysis and management skills and practices in public project management culture is essential for improving time and quality performance.