Dalcher, Darren (2016) Rethinking Project Practice. International Journal of Managing Projects in Business, 9 (4). pp. 798-821. ISSN 1753-8378
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Abstract
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to identify the major trends and contributions published in theAdvances in Project Management book series and place them in the context of the findings and outputsfrom the Rethinking Project Management Network. A key aim is to address the concerns of projectpractitioners and explore the alternatives to the assumed linear rationality of project thinking. Thepaper further offers a guided catalogue to some of the key ideas, concepts and approaches offered topractitioners through the series.Design/methodology/approach – This is a conceptual review paper that reflects on the main areascovered in a book series aimed at improving modern project practice and explores the implications onpractice, knowledge and the relationship between research and practice. The topics are addressedthrough the prism of the Rethinking Project Management Network findings.Findings – The paper explores new advances in project management practice aligning them with keytrends and perspectives identified as part of the Rethinking Project Management initiative. It furtherdelineates new areas of expertise augmenting those mentioned in the disciplinary canons of knowledge.Research limitations/implications – The paper offers a new understanding of how knowledge iscreated in, for and by practice. Improving the relationship between theory and practice may demand anew appreciation of the role of practitioners and the value of their reflection in context.Practical implications – The primary implication is to explore the new directions and perspectivescovered by authors in the Advances in Project Management series, and identify main areas and topics thatfeature in the emerging discourse about project management practice. In addition, new conceptualisationsof the role of practitioners in making sense of project realities are offered and considered.Originality/value – New areas of interest and activity are identified and examined, offeringa catalogue of new writing and perspectives in project practice. Reflection on the relationshipbetween research and practice encourages fresh thinking about the crucial role of practitionerknowledge and reflection.