Project management trends in IS development: A study of the IT sector in China

Abstract

Focusing on formal project management initiatives (PMIs) in the information technology (IT) sector in China, this paper first examines possible differences in perception about such PMIs between IT professionals who were exposed to their implementation and those who weren't. This part of the investigation is based on an adaptation of Rogers' theory of diffusion of innovations. Second, this paper examines the implementation of PMIs and their possible effect on IT projects. This part of the investigation focuses on "inside" project management risks and performance. Findings from a survey of 82 senior IT professionals show some differences in perception between the two groups of respondents. Findings show also that organizations that have implemented PMIs tended to better control the "inside" risks related to the management of IT projects and to report higher performance levels on such projects. The implications for research and practice are discussed.