Innovative project management strategies: Integrating technology for enhanced efficiency and success in Nigerian projects
Authors: Christianah Pelumi Efunniyi; Edith Ebele Agu; Ibrahim Adedeji Adeniran; Olajide Soji Osundare; Henry Oziegbe Iriogbe
Year: 2024

The concept paper aims to explore and establish comprehensive strategies for incorporating advanced technological tools and methods into project management practices within Nigeria. This executive summary highlights the paper's primary objectives, theoretical foundations, and expected outcomes, focusing on the transformative potential of technology to improve project efficiency and success rates. The primary objective of this paper is to develop a framework for integrating innovative technologies into project management strategies in Nigeria. It emphasizes the need for modernizing traditional project management approaches to keep pace with global standards and enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of project execution. The paper underscores the potential of technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), blockchain, and cloud computing to streamline project workflows, improve resource allocation, and facilitate real-time decision-making. Central to the paper is the exploration of various technological innovations and their applications in project management. It examines the impact of AI and ML in predictive analytics for project planning and risk management, blockchain for ensuring transparency and accountability in project transactions, and cloud computing for fostering collaboration and data sharing among project stakeholders. The paper discusses how these technologies can be leveraged to address common project management challenges such as cost overruns, delays, and quality issues. The concept paper delves into theoretical models and frameworks that support the integration of technology into project management. It reviews models like the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK) and Agile methodologies, emphasizing how these frameworks can be enhanced with technological tools to optimize project outcomes. The paper also highlights the importance of adopting a flexible and adaptive project management approach to accommodate the rapid evolution of technology. Addressing the practical challenges of implementing innovative project management strategies, the paper identifies issues such as the digital divide, resistance to change, and the need for specialized skills. It proposes solutions including capacity-building initiatives to upskill project managers, fostering a culture of continuous learning, and encouraging public-private partnerships to support technology adoption in project management. The anticipated outcomes of integrating technology into project management include improved project delivery times, enhanced quality of deliverables, increased cost efficiency, and better stakeholder satisfaction. These improvements are expected to contribute to the overall success of projects across various sectors in Nigeria, driving economic growth and development. The paper provides a strategic roadmap for modernizing project management practices through the adoption of advanced technologies. By leveraging these technologies, Nigerian project managers can enhance their capabilities, achieve better project outcomes, and contribute to the nation's socio-economic progress. The paper calls for collaborative efforts from government, industry, and academia to create an enabling environment for technology-driven project management, ensuring sustainable development and long-term success.