A preliminary Factor Analysis of Project Completion Reports

This study is part of a longer-term program in which we are working with an Australian Bank to improve its software development risk management practices. The sub-process under study is the project completion review process that is often used in companies as a means of formalizing and crystallizing the findings of a project at its conclusion. The research seeks to add to the very slim body of knowledge in this area and especially the reliability of the process and the tools used to support these processes. The research demonstrates that because of a weak operational definition of project success these processes and tools teeter precariously on what they are trying to measure. The validity and empirical value of the material flowing from these surveys is of therefore of questionable value. We offer some suggestions for how this process may be improved.