Project management and its effects on project success: Cross-country and cross-industry comparisons

•Data were obtained for 1387 projects from 10 different market sectors.•Empirical data suggests significant differences across countries and sectors.•The results show a positive relationship between PM enablers and schedule.•The results show a positive relationship between PM efforts and schedule.•Project complexity has a significant effect on margin and schedule indicators.

This study aims to investigate the effects of project management (PM) on project success under the parameters of scheduling, cost, and margins. We adopt a contingency approach that evaluates the complexity of the project, according to 4 categories, the effect of industry sector and countries. The methodological approach involved a longitudinal field survey in 3 countries (Argentina, Brazil, and Chile) with business units from 10 different industries over a 3-year period, and data from a total of 1387 projects were analyzed. Structural equation modeling was used to test the research hypotheses. The results show a significant and positive relationship between the response variable schedule with PM enablers and project management efforts in training and capabilities development. Project complexity has a significant effect on 2 aspects of project success: margin and schedule. Both cross-country and cross-industry analyses show a significant explanatory effect.