Challenges of Implementing Project Management Frameworks in Small and Medium-sized Software Enterprises

Project management studies and practical applications have thoroughly analyzed organizations in both the public and private sectors. However, the growing need to improve the Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) sector is crucial for enhancing national development and ensuring its sustainability. Research has shown that a large proportion of SMEs struggle with project management challenges, resulting in a concerning failure rate of around 80% during the first five years of their operations. This statistic highlights the crucial requirement for a comprehensive project management methodology to enhance global success rates and extend the existence of SMEs. This study involved conducting a survey-based investigation into the challenges encountered by SMEs when incorporating project management frameworks into their way of operating. In the dynamic field of software development have faced many challenges when it comes to implementing organized project management frameworks. This research explores the challenges in software development, including limited resources, skill gaps, and the need for specialized tools that align with the distinctive characteristics of the industry. A comprehensive examination, based on careful data collection, reveals the challenges presented by combining traditional project management strategies with the agile and iterative nature of software projects. This investigation aims to strengthen SMEs by bridging the gap between theory and practice. It seeks to help SMEs navigate their growth path more effectively and efficiently in a competitive market. This paper aims to enhance scholarly discourse by offering a comprehensive understanding of the complex challenges faced by SMEs in the software sector, as well as providing practical solutions.