Impact analysis of leadership on construction project management in the Lebanese contracting firms

Abstract

Purpose – In project management, the appreciation of the behavioral and interpersonal dimension that interacts with subordinates is to be considered as crucial factors within project sustainability. Therefore, the ability to exercise leadership is not necessarily an asset, if it is not immediately coupled with managerial skills. The intrinsic qualities that a leader should possess in order to exercise his mandate will vary depending on the intended mission. Design/methodology/approach – The study relies on a quantitative method. Such method purpose lies in the description, explanation, prediction and objective control of its causes and the prediction of its occurrence, basing its conclusions on a rigorous use of quantification. Both the collection results and its processing and analysis follow the logic of a hypothetic-deductive method. Findings – A positive relationship has been found between transformational leadership and employees’ empowerment, stimulation and project efficiency and effectiveness. Research limitations– it was advisable to invest, before, into a qualitative method in order to understand through semi-guided interviews the perceptions and the intentions of project management’s leaders. Implications – It is also important that the manager creates a caring environment, where employees can express themselves freely, are proactive and respected. Open communication is advocated regarding the objectives and responsibilities of each. Practical implications – From a practical point of view, the study consisted of verifying three hypotheses. Findings have shown a positive relationship between leadership and employees’ empowerment, employees’ stimulation and project efficiency and effectiveness. Originality/value – The literature review suggests that team management have an increasingly important influence on projects performance and on the overall organization performance as well. Many organizations are moving from a traditional hierarchical structure to a team oriented structure to provide an environment conducive to performance. In such vein, leadership and empowerment of employees have become essential. In other words, when the time comes to assess the success of projects, managers should be interested in measurable indicators such as costs, schedule and scope, while having an adequate understanding of influences that impact project activities. All in all this research emphasis on the importance of team management and employee empowerment and its aims to reflect its impact in the Lebanese contracting firms. After following a quantitate approach, the research shows a positive impact of leadership on employees empowerment, employees stimulation and the project efficiency.