THE EFFECT OF NON-COMPLIANCE WITH PROJECT MANAGEMENT PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICES IN CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS: A CASE STUDY OF THE STANDARD GAUGE RAILWAY AT THE TANZANIA RAILWAY CORPORATION

Abstract

ABSTRACT Non-compliance with project management principles and practices poses serious risks to the success of large-scale infrastructure projects particularly within Tanzania’s Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) project which aims to improve national connectivity and economic development. While project management resources such as seminars, training, and research articles are readily available to help stakeholders understand and implement effective project management, ensuring consistent adherence to these principles in complex projects remains a significant challenge. This study assesses the effect of non-compliance with project management principles and practices in construction projects in Tanzania, focusing on the SGR project at Tanzania Railway Corporation, seeking to clarify how such non-compliance may lead to project delays, budget overruns, and quality issues. A quantitative research approach was employed, gathering data from 109 respondents, including project managers, engineers, contractors, and consultants, using structured questionnaires. Data analysis was conducted using IBM SPSS version 26, employing descriptive and inferential statistical techniques, including multiple linear regression. The findings indicate that strict adherence to project management principles has a positive and statistically significant effect on project performance, contributing to timely completion, budget management, and overall project quality. Conversely, non-compliance alone was not found to have a significant statistical effect on project performance, suggesting it may contribute indirectly to other challenges but does not independently predict success or failure. Additionally, risk identification and mitigation were shown to positively influence on project outcomes, underscoring the importance of proactive risk management in enhancing compliance and achieving project goals. These findings provide important insights for policymakers and stakeholders, highlighting the critical role of structured project management and risk mitigation in ensuring the successful completion of large-scale projects. Practical recommendations for improving compliance and training project teams are suggested to support better project outcomes in Tanzania’s construction sector, ultimately contributing to sustainable development.