Complexities in managing projects?

Hi Tahir, The question itself is a complex one. Considering a project, the various steps in the cycle face a number of complexities as all the others have mentioned herein. For understanding the complexities in each project, one must analyse each activity and work package, and along with assistance of SMEs' complexities can be categorized and studied individually.

All the best for your thesis.

Tahir -

Complexity should influence a number of project decisions including:

1. Should we even attempt it?
2. Should we bring in outside help?
3. What level of governance is needed?
4. What degree of tailoring and application of PM processes is required?

As an example, in my most recent full-time role, we modified our methodology tailoring guidance to incorporate complexity on top of the existing cost inputs we had previously used. We determined complexity through a number of project profiling questions which attempted to capture a holistic understanding of this complex (no pun intended) concept.

Kiron

This is a very good, but very broad question and difficult to answer in a few words. Have a look into the following PMI Practise Guide for a very good overview of the complexity areas and how to cope with it. The Practise Guide does mention three categories: Human Behavior, System Behavior and Ambiguity.
https://www.pmi.org/pmbok-guide-standards/...ides/complexity

I do agree with Andrew too. Complexity has multidimensional impacts on projects. I would add the complexity comes from the internal and Customer organizations that do not share all the time the same points of view.

The scope of projects can be source of complexity. When your project concerns several organizations from several different countries and cultures and sometimes with incompatible interests. Satisfying all stakeholders becomes difficult.
In such case, intensive communication with all sides requires time and cost. If your schedule and budget are tight, your Project may suffer.