Majority of global infrastructure projects ‘failing’

The survey respondents identified digital transformation as a key driver of successful delivery

Over half of infrastructure projects around the world are failing to meet time, cost and quality objectives, according to a survey from international engineering, digital and project management company Assystem.

The survey of over 700 project controls professionals working globally on major transport, energy and urban development projects revealed that only 47% of projects and portfolios worldwide are achieving their time, cost and quality objectives.

According to the survey, skills shortages, limited investment and lack of uptake in technology, innovation and data production/analysis were cited as major reasons for failure. Only 23% of projects and portfolios believe their teams have all the necessary skills to perform their function successfully.

Project controls professionals provide guidance and assistance to project managers for the resolution of complex engineering project controls issues and help with the planning, scheduling, cost analysis and monitoring for major engineering programs or high visibility projects.

The survey also revealed that investment levels present another significant challenge to project delivery, with uncertainty around financial backing for major projects causing scheduling delays, which cause project inefficiencies and cost increases in turn.

Respondents identified digital transformation as a key driver of successful delivery, with confidence doubling when projects are paired with a digital delivery plan, noting that such cutting-edge solutions require initiative and investment to adopt and deploy them effectively.

“While some of the challenges facing the infrastructure sector are systemic, the silver lining is that there are means to improve project success rates available in the short to medium term,” said Kevin Corcoran, Senior Business Unit Director for Transport and Infrastructure, Assystem.

“Today, technological advancements, particularly assets such as digital twins, powerful data-rich dashboards, and artificial intelligence, have the potential to revolutionise project management and turn the tide on the global infrastructure challenge.”