A performance measurement view of IT project management

Abstract

Purpose

The objective of this paper is to develop a methodology and a framework to assess performance measurement and generate a better understanding of the project context. The paper aims to present an application to illustrate the proposed methodology, to identify and measure the success parameters for a project.

Design/methodology/approach

The research method is a mixture of qualitative and quantitative and it is applied to a case study. The primary data were gathered using unstructured interviews with decision makers. Bibliographic research is used in order to construct the theoretical framework and the intervention instrument adopted is the multicriteria decision aiding methodology – constructivist (MCDA‐C).

Findings

The methodology makes it possible to visualize the criteria that must be taken into account according to the decision makers' values in the project selection process. The framework supports the ordinal and cardinal measurement of the project performance, making it possible to compare and rank proposals, as well providing a process to improve project proposals.

Practical implications

This process has helped in negotiations between stakeholders in the project, and, consequently, has helped the chief project officer to select and prioritize strategic projects within the demand for new products.

Originality/value

This paper offers an empirical understanding of the application of performance evaluation to project management and identifies a complementary tool in this interdisciplinary area.

Citation

Tadeu de Oliveira Lacerda, R., Ensslin, L. and Rolim Ensslin, S. (2011), "A performance measurement view of IT project management", International Journal of Productivity and Performance Management, Vol. 60 No. 2, pp. 132-151. https://doi.org/10.1108/17410401111101476