Investigating a complex systems theory approach to controlling risk within complex projects

Black, Warren (2023) Investigating a complex systems theory approach to controlling risk within complex projects. PhD thesis, Queensland University of Technology, Australia.

Abstract

The Thesis explores how Complex Systems Theory can be applied to the management of material risks within a Complex Project context. Specifically, the research investigates how historically prevalent risk management challenges may be addressed by leveraging the principles of Complexity Theory and Systems Theory. The primary research contribution is the development of a Complex Project Risk Management Model which was empirically tested and confirmed as a valid risk management control system. In this regard, the Thesis provides new insight in how Risk Management may be improved within those project delivery environments known to be highly complex, dynamic and systemic.

Item Type: Thesis (Doctoral)
Thesis advisor: Rose, Tim and Kajewski, Stephen
Uncontrolled Keywords: risk; project; complexity; complex systems; systems thinking; project risk management; resilience
Index terms: project risk management, control system, material risk, complex system, systems thinking, systems theory, risk management, complex project, project delivery, complexity
Subjects: monitoring and control, financial risk, analytical methods, project delivery, risk assessment, strategic project management, systems engineering, theoretical framing
Topics: Engineering Principles, Risk Management, Cost Management, Procurement, Project Management, Research Practice, Business Strategy
Descriptive scope: 3 PCT

N.B. Descriptive scope is a count of how many of the five facets of empirical research are indicated by the words used in title, abstract and keywords. It is not intended as a judgement on the research; merely a count of the kind of word we would expect to indicate Phenomenon, Concepts, Theoretical framing, Empirical techniques, Analytical techniques. If all five are present, then a code of “5 PCTEA” will indicate this. If you feel the coding for this record is questionable, we welcome discussion around the terms we matched or the way we categorized them. The facet you would expect may not be coded, or a facet may be coded inappropriately. This can also bear on a larger question, of which facets should be treated as defining in construction management research. Please get in touch, and we will look at it. More details here