Impact of Big Data Analytics on Project Success Rates: A Comparative Study of Traditional Versus Data-Driven Project Planning

Abstract

Big Data Analytics (BDA) has emerged as a critical enabler of project management practices enabling quick decision-making and improvement of projects’ performance. This study aims to examine the effects of Big Data Analytics (BDA) on arrayed aspects of project success such as planning, decisions and others like budget, schedule and stakeholders’ engagement. Quantitative data is collected from 200 project managers and stakeholders from different sectors through a cross-sectional survey. Additionally, 15 face-to-face semi-structured interviews are conducted to gather qualitative data. The quantitative data is analyzed using descriptive statistics and regression analysis to establish the level and manner in which BDA affects the success of the projects. The qualitative data on the other hand is analyzed using thematic analysis to get the recurrent themes and experiences of the participants. The findings indicate that the benefits of adopting BDA enhance project success in aspects such as the schedule and resources. However, it is also shown that difficulties in integrating data and addressing gaps in expertise are crucial. The study adds to the body of knowledge of how BDA is applied within contemporary project management and resource suggestions for mitigating the barriers to its integration. Based on the findings of the research implications for both BDA applications in specific sectors and the long-term impact of BDA implementation on project management practices are recommended and directions for further research are provided.