Complexity factors affecting research and development projects duration

Research and development (R&D) has become important to the survival and performance of many organizations in terms of market share, increased profitability, technological advancement and competitive advantage. Therefore, the management of these projects is crucial in ensuring that they achieve the project goals and objectives. However, due to their high uncertainties and complexities, R&D projects are often beset with time delays that result in termination before achieving the project objectives. A case study was conducted on a R&D project team in an engineering organization to identify the complexities of R&D project management process and their impact on project duration. The results of the study show that different factors contribute to R&D project complexity and the delay in these projects is due to ineffective management of R&D project management process.