A maturation model for project-based organisations - with uncertainty management as an ever-present multi-project management focus

Abstract

The classical view of multi-project management does not capture its dynamic nature. Current theory falls short in its ability to explain how the management of project-based companies evolves because of their need to be agile and adaptable in a changing environment. The purpose of this paper is therefore to present a descriptive model that elucidates the maturation processes in a project-based organisation as well as to provide an enhanced understanding of multi-project management in practice. The maturation model illustrates the way the management of project-based organisations evolves between structuring administration and managing uncertainties, and emphasises the importance of active individual actions and situated management actions that have to be undertaken in order to coordinate, synchronise and communicate the required knowledge and skills. The outcomes primarily reveal that, although standardized project models are used and considerable resources are spent on effective project portfolio management, the way information and communication are dealt with is vitally important in the management of projectbased organisations. This is particularly true of informal and non-codified communication.