Blueprints for success: applying structural equation modeling in dam construction planning

PurposeThe current research environment lacks a thorough examination of project success in specific domains, particularly in the context of dam project performance. Although there is a significant amount of study and a wide range of project management subjects, there is a clear absence of empirical research on dams. The purpose of this study is to fill in the knowledge gap on how to improve the performance of dam construction projects by focusing on the planning phase.Design/methodology/approachThe study utilized a survey to gather the perspectives of professionals involved in dam projects regarding critical success factors and success criteria during the project planning phase. The collected data were then analyzed using exploratory factor analysis and structural equation modeling.FindingsFour dimensions were identified for critical success factors: "project team," "project readiness," "engagement" and "long-term impact." For project success criteria, "fulfill identified needs," "functionality," "quality performance" and "sustainability" were identified as having significance in measuring project success.Originality/valueThe article provides suggestions on how the dam engineering industry can include the identified project elements that are associated with project success. The study's significance stems from its substantial contribution to the limited literature on dam projects.