A grounded theory research investigation into the importance of social relationships and networks within corporate information systems projects

• Authors: A C Leonard
• Venue: Proceedings of the South African Institute of Computer Scientists and Information Technologists Conference on Knowledge, Innovation and Leadership in a Diverse, Multidisciplinary Environment
• Year: 2011

The social and political nature of IS projects requires that social relationships and networks are considered when project teams are created and monitored throughout the project lifecycle since project management philosophies and methodologies are not enough to achieve project success. Social relationships and networks were found to have three impact types on IS projects being a) influence, b) friendships and c) advice. Social relationships and networks were found to impact IS projects in areas of leadership, project culture, social relationships within project teams, the use of external social networks and the managing of external influences. Grounded theory techniques were used to conduct the research. Project documentation were used to identify core categories which were supplemented with a survey directed at all levels of project team members. Interpretive patterns from grounded theory enabled inferences to be drawn on the role of social relationships and networks within IS projects. The research findings provide practical considerations and highlights potential problem areas in the project lifecycle that need to be taken cognisance of irrespective of the chosen project management methodology.