Correlation Between the Management Factors Affecting PMO Implementation in UAE Construction

Abstract

PMO is a very effective strategy for improving construction performance. In the UAE construction industry, PMO is a relatively new trend. Hence it is facing several challenges during construction project implementation. These challenges affect PMO performance. Thus, this study identified the major managementrelated issues and assessed the correlation between the identified factors better to understand PMO implementation performance in the UAE construction industry. The study adopted a quantitative approach where the data was collected using a designed questionnaire. It used simple random technique sampling and gathered 100 valid questionnaire forms against 200 distributed questionnaires forms. The reliability test shows that the data was excellent, having an Alpha value of more than 0.8. Based on the Spearman test, a correlation matrix was developed to understand the relationship between the factors. Based on the correlation matrix, it is found that “inexperienced PMO leadership and project managers”, “unskilled and inexperienced project management personnel,” and “inability to identify the required soft skills in the implementation of PMO” are mutually correlated with each other. In the project management domain, important factors are “overworked project managers due to additional administrative”, “a poorly laid communication strategy on the implementation of PMO purposes and goals”, “minimize bureaucracy to the existing organizational structure”, “unacceptance from senior management” and “selection of the right system to be used” has a high correlation with the factor “Inaccurate information for reporting”. The findings of this study will be helpful for decision making to prioritizing for mitigating or taking corrective actions.