New research finds good planning and clear goals are main contributors to successful projects

A survey conducted for APM by research company Censuswide asked project professionals whose primary project is on or under budget to specify the factors that have contributed to this. Good project planning was cited most frequently by respondents in the transport and logistics sector, with 60% of survey respondents saying this had helped them to stick to their budget.

When it comes to delivering projects on time, having clear goals and objectives was revealed as the most commonly cited contributing factor. More than half (59%) of respondents whose main project is on or ahead of schedule said that having clear goals and objectives had helped them achieve this.

Among project professionals whose main project is over budget, the most commonly cited factor was external factors beyond the project manager’s control. Those whose primary project is over schedule also tended to cite external factors as a contributor.

Debbie Dore, APM’s chief executive, said: “Regardless of a project’s size or scope, thorough planning and clearly defined goals are essential.

“As the chartered body for the project profession, we are committed to supporting learning and development for project professionals in the transport and logistics sector, so that they are able to plan and set goals effectively to ensure that the economic and societal benefits of their work can be realised.

“APM’s innovative knowledge and research programme helps advance the art, science and practice of project management. We offer project professionals a diverse range of insights and resources to facilitate discussion, inspire improvement and assist application.”