Incorporating corporate sustainability and responsibility (CSR) in project management for the information technology (IT) sector : barriers and enablers

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine the extent to which CSR is incorporated into the management of projects within the Information Technology (IT) Sector. The study’s focus was particularly on IT Projects and IT Project Management. This research adopted a qualitative, exploratory approach as the study aimed to obtain new insights. Information was gathered from a cross-section of 8 companies, with 13 experts participating in semi-structured interviews. The study found that cost reduction is the real motive behind undertaking of IT Projects. The efficiencies brought about by IT Projects improve processes and cut out unnecessary waste. The reduction of operational risk, increase of revenue and reduction of costs are the true motivations for undertaking these IT Projects. If value creation is argued from this perspective, it could be considered a viable Business Case. The study found that CSR is well incorporated in organisations that have Project Management Offices (PMOs). Because the PMOs appear to engender good CSR practices, Management should seriously consider the establishment of PMOs to effectively address the incorporation of CSR into their IT Projects and IT Project Management. The use of IT Projects to develop beneficial products presents a solid Business Case for CSR incorporation.