| Information technology (IT) project success depends on several factors, for example, having an IT project manager with effective leadership, decision-making, and management skills. Traditionally, project success was also thought to depend on completing the project on time and within budget and scope. There exists a limited understanding of the extent to which external factors such as cultural differences, time zone differences, and language barriers contribute to project success. The purpose of this study was to examine whether or not these external factors affect the success of IT projects. The research question focused on the external factors that may affect IT project success by examining the relationship between the external factors and project success when resources are working from different locations. The study drew on attribution, resource-based, person-organization fit, and resource dependency theories. This study used quantitative methodology for correlational research and convenience sampling to collect the data. Of the 120 IT professionals in this sample population, 102 worked in global locations. A survey instrument prepared by the researcher was used to collect data from participants. Items on the survey were answered on a Likert scale, and statistical tests, such as correlation and ANOVA, were carried out using SPSS software. The results showed a significant association between IT project success and external factors such as time zone ( p = 0.016) and language barrier (p = 0.020). This study has implications for positive social change. If the relationship between external factors and project success is better understood, then organizations can deliver services to people efficiently and effectively, which results in a healthier, safer, and more prosperous society. |
