Project Management Soft Skills in Project Success Rates

This study evaluates the significance of project management soft skills in achieving project success rates. It discusses the advantages, challenges, and impact of soft skills on project success. The study also recommends measures for overcoming the challenges. The research aims to establish the relation between soft skills and project success, analyze the challenges for applying soft skills in project management, and recommend measures for overcoming the issues.

Running head: PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFT SKILLS IN PROJECT SUCCESS RATES
Evaluating the significance of project management soft skills
in the context of project success rates
Name of the Student:
Name of the University:
Author note:

PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFT SKILLS IN PROJECT SUCCESS RATES 1
Table of Contents
Chapter 1: Introduction....................................................................................................................7
1.1 Background of the study........................................................................................7
1.2 Research aims and objectives................................................................................................7
12.1 Research aims......................................................................................................................7
1.2.2 Objectives of the study.......................................................................................................7
1.3 Research Questions................................................................................................................8
1.4 Problem Statement.................................................................................................................8
1.5 Rationale of the study............................................................................................................8
1.6 Hypothesis.............................................................................................................................9
1.7 Structure of the study...........................................................................................................10
Chapter 2: a Literature review.......................................................................................................11
2.1 Preface.................................................................................................................................11
2.2 Overview of project management soft skills.......................................................................11
2.3 Advantages of project management soft skills....................................................................13
2.4 Relation between project management soft skills and project success rate.........................14
2.5 Challenges facing while implying project management soft skills in project.....................14
2.6 Conceptual framework.........................................................................................................15
2.7 Summary..............................................................................................................................16
Chapter 3: Research methodology.................................................................................................17
3.1 Preface.................................................................................................................................17
3.2 Method Outline....................................................................................................................17
3.3 Research philosophy............................................................................................................18
3.4 Research approach...............................................................................................................19
3.5 Research design...................................................................................................................21
3.6 Data collection strategy.......................................................................................................22
3.7 Sample and sampling...........................................................................................................22
3.8 Ethical considerations..........................................................................................................23
3.9 Time Horizons.....................................................................................................................23
3.10 Chapter Summary..............................................................................................................23
Chapter 4: Data analysis and findings...........................................................................................24
4.1 Preface.................................................................................................................................24
4.2 Quantitative analysis............................................................................................................24

PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFT SKILLS IN PROJECT SUCCESS RATES 2
4.3 Reliability analysis...............................................................................................................37
4.4 Correlation matrix :..............................................................................................................38
4.5 Summary..............................................................................................................................41
Chapter 5: Conclusion and recommendations...............................................................................42
5.1 Conclusion...........................................................................................................................42
5.2 Linking with objectives.......................................................................................................42
5.3 Recommendations................................................................................................................43
5.4 Limitation and future scope.................................................................................................44
References..................................................................................................................................45
Appendix 2.................................................................................................................................49

PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFT SKILLS IN PROJECT SUCCESS RATES 3
List of tables and figures
Table 1: Time for associating with project management role...........................................24
Figure 1: Time for associating with project management role..........................................24
Table 2: Communication as project management soft skills.............................................25
Figure 2: Communication as project management soft skills............................................25
Table 3: Role of stakeholder management in project........................................................27
Figure 3: Role of stakeholder management in project.......................................................27
Table 4: Project management soft skills............................................................................28
Figure 4: Project management soft skills...........................................................................29
Table 5: Challenges in using project management soft skills............................................30
Figure 5: Challenges in using project management soft skills..........................................30
Table 6: Type of the challenges.........................................................................................32
Figure 6: Type of the challenges.......................................................................................32
Table 7: Role of organization in adopting project management soft skills.......................33
Figure 7: Role of organization in adopting project management soft skills......................34
Table 8: Recommendations regarding overcoming the challenges...................................35
Figure 8: Recommendations regarding overcoming the challenges..................................35

PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFT SKILLS IN PROJECT SUCCESS RATES 4
Chapter 1: Introduction
1.1 Background of the study
Badets, Grasser and Peltier (2017) stated that a recent report had been prepared for
McDonald's UK provides a foundation to comprehend the significance of soft skills to the UK
economy that proves the significnace of soft management skills in order to get success in the
project. In respect of client, the right person requires help to ensure better project results
regarding higher software quality (Barna and Deák 2014). However, lower risk of project failure
as well as more peace of mind. Hence, better project management minimizes the risk of in
project failure along with translation for getting outcome regarding favourable project results
such as lower costs along with the higher satisfaction of clients.
1.2 Research aims and objectives
12.1 Research aims
The aim of the research is identification of soft skill required in achieving the success of
the project. Also, the research focuses the measurement of implementing soft skills in project
management success.
1.2.2 Objectives of the study
The research has following objectives.
 To establish the relation between soft skills and project success
 To find out the impact of effective soft skills in improving success rate of the
project
 To analyze the challenges for applying soft skills in project management

PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFT SKILLS IN PROJECT SUCCESS RATES 5
 To recommend measures for overcoming the issues
1.3 Research Questions
The research questions can be listed as followed.
 What is the relation between soft skills and project success?
 How soft skills have an impact on success of the project?
 What are the challenges of applying soft skills in project management?
 How can the challenges be overcome?
1.4 Problem Statement
Balancing the components and persons involved in the project is difficult for a project
manager in order to get success in the project (De Carvalho et al. 2015). On the other hand, time,
opportunity and people are required to well managed that is considered very difficult for the
managers. In this perspective, project management training is one of the necessary steps to
manage unexpected obstacles for the project managers. In addition, balancing soft skills and hard
skills is also a challenge for the project manager. Hence, it is required to adopt effective conflict
resolution process so that the project management can achieve success.
1.5 Rationale of the study
The ability for effectively managing projects as well as programs have become
increasingly significant (Carvalho and Rabechini Junior 2015). Hence, it becomes an important
research issue to analyse the significance of project management soft skills to get success in the
project.
On the other hand, project management community as well as the broader business
community is increasingly aware of the significance of soft skills. Being mindful of the

PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFT SKILLS IN PROJECT SUCCESS RATES 6
importance of soft skills and investment in the development of the improved capabilities are not
the same (Gast and Ledford 2014). However, most of the organizations need to invest in the
development of enhanced soft skills capabilities. Hence, it is important to analyze the role of sogt
skills in order to get success in the project?
The requirement of soft skills is considered as the key aspect to succeed in the project. As
there is a dynamic force going on in a team, it is important to evaluate the ideas as well as
decisions made in effort to reach the goals set before. On the other hand, poor communication
can undermine the success of the project. Therefore, it is required to evaluate importance of
project management soft skills to get success in a project.
1.6 Hypothesis
H0: Project management soft skill is important for success of a project
With the development of competitive marketplace and corporate business model, it
becomes essential to adopt soft skills like useful communication skill, leadership skill and
decision-making skill along with hard skills so that success of the project can be achieved.
Hence, it has been taken as the null hypothesis for the research.
H1: Project management soft skill has no role for the success of a project
There are several skills required for a project. One of the main skills is hard skill such as
knowledge and abilities as well as computer programming by which a project may be completed.
Hence, it has been taken as the alternative hypothesis of the research.

PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFT SKILLS IN PROJECT SUCCESS RATES 7
1.7 Structure of the study
The introductory part of the study deals with aims, objective as well as research
questions, hypothesis along with research rationales. Second chapters deal with reviewing
literature from secondary sources. Research methodology includes the selection of proper tools
in order to research proper way. Data collection and analysis includes analysis of primary data
by conducting the online survey.

PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFT SKILLS IN PROJECT SUCCESS RATES 8
Chapter 2: a Literature review
2.1 Preface
The overview of project management soft skills and its advantages are described in the
current study. The challenges faced during implementation of soft skills in the project are
discussed in this chapter.
2.2 Overview of project management soft skills
At present days, it becomes important for a project manager to include soft skills to get
success in the project. The soft skills include communication skill, leadership skill, motivation
factors, conflict management and trust building (Gustavsson and Hallin 2014). However, in a
data-driven world, the skills are not emphasized in some cases. "Talent Triangle" developed by
PMI indicates that essentiality of soft skills along with hard skill in a project. The following
points represent some vital soft skills; a project managed needs to possess.
Leadership: Being a leader it is rally vital to comprehend the process of working with a
team as well as characteristics of a team. In an organization, teams are continuously changing
dynamic force where objectives are usually discussed. The ideas are identified as well as
decisions made in order to reach the set objectives and goals. Hence, before working on a
specific project, tasks as well as goals are defined and comprehended by every people on the
team.
Leadership is one of the necessary characteristics of a project manager. It has been
defined in PMBOK that leadership as the ability for getting the things achieved by others. It is
conveyed that vision of the project as well as value, which is helpful for team members in

PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFT SKILLS IN PROJECT SUCCESS RATES 9
creating successful completion of the project. Sharing information and involving people in the
process of decision making and keeping the team in order to understand the process as well as
downward the channels of communication. In addition, it assists in resolving conflicts in the
organization. In the practicing of active listening, it is important to overcome the urge for waiting
to speak and focused on the understanding in the situation. It is important to channelize the
energies to focus on managing the process. In addition, it helps to develop the service related to
the matter. On the other hand, it is important to manage the process during waiting to speak and
rely back on the information.
Motivation: Gledson and Dawson (2017) mentioned that motivating people is considered
as a core function of leadership and become a necessary skill for project managers. The members
involved in a project have motivational forces inside them. As a manager, it is vital to
comprehend that influencing behaviour positively. It is significant for the leaders keeping in
mind that listening to as well as advising team members are likely to go further compared to the
issues declaring and having an expectation to work.
Communication: Effective communication can be helpful to clearly and openly an
essential thing. However, it is vital remembering that the exchanges occur in every way. There is
an open and honest communication from the top-level leadership assists in getting results (Gast
and Ledford 2014). Transparent project managers have employees feeling more comfortable
regarding opening up to manage related to their concern, issues as well as constructive
challenges.
Conflict management: Deploying the conflict management strategy can be helpful to
make effective leadership more easily at difficult time of the team. Disagreements can stem from

PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFT SKILLS IN PROJECT SUCCESS RATES 10
competition in order to get the scarce resource, downtime of the system, communication gaps as
well as personal policies. Gustavsson and Hallin (2014) stated that managing these situations can
be helpful for the manager to focus achievement of overall objectives of the project. On the other
hand, it is important to develop team that can be helpful to create team for solving tasks.
Decision-making: Decisions are categorized as routine, strategic as well as operational or
emergency. Depending on the particular type of decisions, it is important for team members
involving in the decision-making process. The project managers have multiple sets of criteria,
which come into play during taking a decision as well as the process of analyzing individual
options.
Organization: A major reason of the organization needs the project managers finding
someone able to organize a large number of moving parts. A good candidate is able to track
multitude of tasks, action items, issues, milestones as well as decisions. Time management is
considered as important area where a number of principles need to be considered (Lewis 2015).
The projects have tendency expanding to fill the time allocated.
2.3 Advantages of project management soft skills
Project managers need multiple skills to be able effectively doing their jobs and obtain
ultimate advantages both associated organizations as well as project stakeholders (Matteson et al.
2016). Boosting the skill has also a great impact on career advancement. In addition,
communication as an effective soft skill is helpful for using as reporting tools, chat and file
sharing.
On the other hand, scheduling capacity is helpful to project manager to create project
schedules effectively so that tasks can be done in proper time. Risk management can be helpful

PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFT SKILLS IN PROJECT SUCCESS RATES 11
to control the project. It is an effective way to assure project sponsors. Moreover, negotiation
could lead to formulate ideal situations that prove to be amicable. The ability of contract
management is useful to maintain relationship with supplier. Along with these, cost
management, critical thinking and task management would be helpful to achieve success in t the
project.
2.4 Relation between project management soft skills and project success rate
Schwalbe (2015) stated that soft skill is one of the main skills in project management that
includes leadership, expectations management, negotiation and decision-making. Inadequately
trained or inexperienced project managers appear to be top as the basic reason for failure in
projects. In order to meet daily challenges as well as successful project delivery, project
managers require assimilating skills set. Technological skill and project management
methodologies are important to be considered in project management programs.
On contrary, soft skills are considered as largely intangible and difficult to measure.
Starting of project management as profession, planning as well as execution is regarded as the
major pillar. On the other hand, as information technology outsourcing is one of the growing
industries, there are more and more organizations are seen to outsource their assets to the
external vendors (Stevens and Norman 2016). It outsourcing activities are generally developed as
distinctive projects that involves developing software application and maintaining existing
application of software. The perspectives of vendors and clients are required to assign right
person in order to lead project as very vital. On the other hand, recent researchers have found
that new trends affect overall project. As a leader, it is important to comprehend the process of
team-working and the characteristics of an effective team.

PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFT SKILLS IN PROJECT SUCCESS RATES 12
2.5 Challenges facing while implying project management soft skills in project
In order to imply project management soft skills, several challenges are faced. It has been
seen that there is lack of inadequate skills for the project. Takey and de Carvalho (2015)
commented that lack of accountability is one of the major barriers faced while implying project
management soft skills in the projects (Wikle and Fagin 2015). On the other hand, ambiguous
contingency plans are vital for project managers to understand the direction for taking pre-
defined scenarios. Lack of training for developing communication and risk management
procedure are the challenges faced while implying project management soft skills in the projects
(Taylor et al. 2015). Moreover, there are several areas where project managers face difficulty in
applying soft skills like improper risk management, ambiguous contingency plans and lack of
stakeholder involvement
2.6 Conceptual framework

PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFT SKILLS IN PROJECT SUCCESS RATES 13
Figure 1: Conceptual framework
(Source: Created by author)
In the conceptual framework, two types of variables are considered. Dependent variable
is project success, whereas independent variables are communication and stakeholder
management. The positive impact of the factors generates project success, whereas absence of
the skills may lead to failure of project.
2.7 Summary
The chapter discusses overview of project management soft skills. In addition, the types
of soft skills are discussed in this chapter of the research. On the other hand, linking between
project management soft skills and success of the project is discussed in this chapter. Discussion
of the challenges would be helpful to provide recommendations of the challenges.

PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFT SKILLS IN PROJECT SUCCESS RATES 14
Chapter 3: Research methodology
3.1 Preface
The chapter includes different methodological tools such as research design, research
approach and research philosophy are selected. On the other hand, data collection and analysis
for the research are described in this chapter of the study. Selection of research methodological
tools and their justification is described in the section. Sample and sampling applicable for the
particular research is also explained in this section of the research.
3.2 Method Outline
Methodological tools Selected tools
Research philosophy Positivism philosophy
Research approach Deductive approach
Research design Descriptive design
Sample and sampling Simple random sampling,
45 project mangers
Data analysis method Quantitative analysis method
Research outline gives a design of the philosophical apparatuses. Positivism philosophy
is chosen in the research. Deductive approach is taken after as positivism philosophy is chosen in
the research. Descriptive research design is selected. A review is composed to gather information
for breaking down the part of biometric innovation for expanding security. Then again,
interviews are directed with managers of the organizations for finding solution of the inquiries
identified with the issue. The researcher has chosen significant books, diaries and site for getting

PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFT SKILLS IN PROJECT SUCCESS RATES 15
optional information for the research. Every perspective is introduced in the present section
quickly.
3.3 Research philosophy
Post positivism philosophy of the research helps to cross check particular information of
the research (Taylor et al. 2015). The philosophy deals previous theory of the research and
learning of the discoveries of the information broke down in the research. Post-positivism
philosophy helps with keeping up clearness of the research. Then again, realism philosophy deals
the reality of target of the research.
Along with these, inquire about philosophy is considered as a concise with respect to the
strategy in which information in regards to marvel should be accumulated, examined and in
addition utilized (Wesley et al. 2017). The primary reason for inquire about philosophy is
considered as the method of changing the viewpoints. Positivists have conviction that the truth is
steady, watched, and clarified from a target perspective without making meddling with particular
marvels considered in the research. It draws in control of reality with various sorts of single free
dynamically that identifies regularities. Likewise, it creates connection between some constituent
segments of social world.
Support for choosing the philosophy
The research depends on hypothetical and in addition functional viewpoint of reality. The
chosen philosophy encourages the researcher to manage propelled thinking with respect to the
research. It additionally helps to finish the research with the assistance of genuine and cross-
checked.

PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFT SKILLS IN PROJECT SUCCESS RATES 16
3.4 Research approach
The research approach is partitioned into two kinds like inductive and in addition
deductive approach. Deductive approach has mean to dissect the past hypotheses and models
identified with the research (Vaioleti 2016). Notwithstanding, inductive approach has points in
delivering new speculations as per the information gathered for the research. Deductive approach
of the research encourages the researcher to lead the research in legitimate way. The pertinence
of speculation of the research is considered as the major particular point between inductive and
in addition deductive approach of the research. Then again, inductive approach in a research can
add to give rise viewing new speculations and speculations. In this point of view, inductive
research begins with giving amazing realities and in addition, the research technique is dedicated
in portrayal.
Defense of the chose look into approach
Discussion about research approaches is considered as critical piece of the research. The
system area of the research manages deductive approach, inductive and additionally abductive
methodologies. In a research, if an arrangement of speculation creates, it requires to affirm or
dismiss at the season of research process. Determination of deductive approach in an research
prompts talk about with the speculations, philosophy, perception and affirmation or dismissal.
Then again, inductive approach manages inclusion of detailing speculation (Dumay and Cai
2015). It for the most part begins with the inquiries of research and has points and targets that
require to be accomplished amid the research system. Abductive approach manages the research
technique gave to portrayal of deficient perceptions.

PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFT SKILLS IN PROJECT SUCCESS RATES 17
3.5 Research design
Research design is divided into two parts such as qualitative and quantitative research
methods. However, it has been argued that research design is referred as the choice of particular
aspects of the research area (Corneillie et al. 2015). Exploratory research has not aim providing
final as well as conclusive answers for the research questions. In exploratory research, the
research purpose is to generate insights related to situation. On the other hand, in conclusive
research, it is required to verify insights as well as help in selecting a course of action. A critical
analysis is achieved with the help of design of the research.
Descriptive research design aids conduction of the research with more portrayal through
putting point-by-point data of the research theme. It is essential to portray the whole research
with additional information in regards to the point of the research.
Support of the chosen research design
In the present research, descriptive research design has been selected. It helps to
investigate theme of the research. With the help of research design, overall strategy selected by
the researcher will be helpful to order to make integration of multiple components as well as
logical way. Hence, it is required to ensure the selection of descriptive research design.
3.6 Data collection strategy
Data collection is helpful in a research for obtaining raw data from the respondents or
secondary form of the research (af Wåhlberg 2017). Primary data are collected from online
survey and interviews, whereas secondary data are collected from several secondary sources. In
the research, primary data has been collected by organizing survey. On the other hand, secondary

PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFT SKILLS IN PROJECT SUCCESS RATES 18
data are collected and analyzed in the form of literature review. Quantitative data analysis
method has been used in order to analyze data gathered from survey.
3.7 Sample and sampling
Alvesson and Sköldberg (2017) stated that sample is consider to study the significance of
soft skills in project. In the current research, stimple random probability sampling technique has
been followed for collecting sample for the research. Sample of study is 45 in the research
selected for survey.
3.8 Ethical considerations
The researcher to analyze the role of soft skills in project management for obtaining
success of the project tried to follow ethical consideration, which can be helpful in making
standardization of the topic (Karp et al. 2017). Any type of commercial data is avoided in the
research. In addition, there was no external influence and mental or physical harassment
involved with the research.
3.9 Time Horizons
(Refer to Appendix)
3.10 Chapter Summary
The chapter explained several tools of selection useful for making better analysis of the
topic. The tools are also helpful to analyze the importance of soft skills for improving the success
rate of project. Selection of the tools is also helpful to give clear and right direction for the
research. Selection of sample for the research is achieved with proper understanding of research
methodology.

PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFT SKILLS IN PROJECT SUCCESS RATES 19
Chapter 4: Data analysis and findings
4.1 Preface
The chapter includes data collection and analysis for the research. In addition, it has been
tried to find out the analysis of raw data gathered by conducting an online survey. As the
research is based on the importance of project management soft skills for project management
success, an online survey has been conducted where project managers of different organizations
are considered as sample of the research. On the other hand, quantitative analysis is taken place
for analyzing raw data from the survey.
4.2 Quantitative analysis
1. How long you are working as a role of project manager in your organization?
Options Response % Respondents Total number of
respondents
1-2 years 26.67% 12 45
3-4 years 22.22% 10 45
5-7 years 17.78% 8 45
8-10 years 17.78% 8 45
More than 10 years 15.56% 7 45

PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFT SKILLS IN PROJECT SUCCESS RATES 20
Table 1: Time for associating with project management role
1-2 years 3-4 years 5-7 years 8-10 years More than
10 years
0.00%
5.00%
10.00%
15.00%
20.00%
25.00%
30.00% 26.67%
22.22%
17.78% 17.78% 15.56%
Time for associating with project
management role
Figure 1: Time for associating with project management role
Findings and analysis
It is clearly indicated in the above table that there are 26.67% participants in the online
survey are working as project manager since 1 to 2 years. However, 22.22% participants in the
survey are working since 3 to 4 years. On the other hand, 17.78% respondents in the survey are
workings since 5 to 7 years. Same number of people is working since 8 to 10 years. In the
survey, nearly 15.56% participants are working for more than 10 years.
Hence, as most of the people are working in project manager since 1 to 2 years, it is
required for the management of the organization to focus on updating the skills as required for
being competitive in the market. On the other hand, there are many people in the survey working
as project manager for long time. Hence, it is required to provide training to the staffs as they can
easily update their skills and obtain competitive benefits.

PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFT SKILLS IN PROJECT SUCCESS RATES 21
2. How far you agree that effective communication has a significant role for getting success in
a project?
Options Response % Respondents Total number of
respondents
Strongly agree 44.44% 20 45
Agree 33.33% 15 45
Neutral 11.11% 5 45
Disagree 6.67% 3 45
Strongly disagree 4.44% 2 45
Table 2: Communication as project management soft skills
Strongly
agree Agree Neutral Disagree Strongly
disagree
0.00%
5.00%
10.00%
15.00%
20.00%
25.00%
30.00%
35.00%
40.00%
45.00%
44.44%
33.33%
11.11%
6.67% 4.44%
Communication as project
management soft skills
Figure 2: Communication as project management soft skills
Findings and analysis

PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFT SKILLS IN PROJECT SUCCESS RATES 22
The above table and graph state that there are nearly 44.44% participants in the survey
are strongly agreed about the matter. Approximately 33.33% participants are agreed on the
statement. However, there are more than 10% respondents remain neutral as they are not sure
about the role of effective communication for project management success. There are nearly
6.67% participants in the online survey are disagreed that proeper communication has an
important role for getting success in a project, whereas 4.44% people are strongly disagreed.
Hence, it is required to emphasize on the effective use of communication as one of the
major project management soft skills in order to obtain success in the project. In this perspective,
management of the organization needs to hire employees having sound communication skill. In
addition, it is required to provide training to the project manager on practicing effective
communication so that they can easily communicate with the staffs involved in the project.
Along with this, effective communication with clients would be helpful to understand their
demands and work according to that. It also helps to manage conflicts in the groups and take
proper decision.
3. How far you agree that stakeholder management is beneficial for getting success in the
project?
Options Response % Respondents Total number of
respondents
Strongly agree 31.11% 14 45
Agree 35.56% 16 45
Neutral 4.44% 2 45
Disagree 17.78% 8 45
Strongly disagree 11.11% 5 45

PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFT SKILLS IN PROJECT SUCCESS RATES 23
Table 3: Role of stakeholder management in project
Strongly
agree Agree Neutral Disagree Strongly
disagree
0.00%
5.00%
10.00%
15.00%
20.00%
25.00%
30.00%
35.00%
40.00%
31.11%
35.56%
4.44%
17.78%
11.11%
Role of stakeholder management in
project
Response %
Figure 3: Role of stakeholder management in project
Findings and analysis
The table indicates that there are 31.11% respondents out of total number of respondents
in the survey are strongly agreed that that stakeholder management is beneficial for getting
success in the project. In addition, nearly 35.56% participants in the survey are agreed with the
statement. However, nearly 17.78% people in the survey are disagreed about the matter. On the
other hand, 11.11% participants in the survey are strongly disagreed about the matter.
As stakeholder management is considered as systematic process for identification,
analysis, planning as well as implementation of the actions in order to involve with the
stakeholders. Stakeholder management is one of the vital activities. Thus, use of simple
processes as well as investing modest effort can be helpful to make a big difference to get
eventual success of the project through comprehending the demands of stakeholders. Hence, it is

PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFT SKILLS IN PROJECT SUCCESS RATES 24
required to focus on stakeholder management as one of the important elements so that success in
project can be acvhived.
4. What are the project management soft skills required for success of a project?
Options Response % Respondents Total number of
respondents
Communication 28.89% 13 45
Motivation 24.44% 11 45
Leadership 17.78% 8 45
Decision making 17.78% 8 45
Conflict management 11.11% 5 45
Table 4: Project management soft skills
Communicati
on Motivation Leadership Decision
making Conflict
management
0.00%
5.00%
10.00%
15.00%
20.00%
25.00%
30.00%
28.89%
24.44%
17.78% 17.78%
11.11%
Project management soft skills
Figure 4: Project management soft skills
Findings and analysis

PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFT SKILLS IN PROJECT SUCCESS RATES 25
The table depicts that there are approximately 28.89% participants in the survey think
that communication is important soft skills required for gaining success in project management.
Approximately 24.44% respondents think that motivation is required to provide among the staffs
of the project. However, 17.78% participants think that leadership is one of the major aspects for
adopting project management soft skills in the project. On the other hand, nearly 11.11% people
think that conflict management process need to be used effectively in project management so that
the organizations can obtain competitive benefits.
Hence, it is required to focus on communication as project management soft skills. For
clients, communication of the project details in writing as well as periodic status report is
necessary as it can assist reinforcing the message as well as develop rapport. It has been found
status of the meetings as well as reports with teams to be invaluable as it assists to keep track of
next steps, risks in project, action items, budget as well as process. Effective communication
starts by putting in proper time as well as effort needed to understand team well as well as
devising a proper communication plan, which connects with distinctive types of personality.
Hence, it is required to develop effective communication skills so that the organization needs to
provide training and adopt project management skills properly in the organization.
5. How far you agree that implementing project management soft skills has a number of
challenges to be faced?
Options Response % Respondents Total number of
respondents
Strongly agree 31.11% 14 45
Agree 26.67% 12 45
Neutral 4.44% 2 45

PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFT SKILLS IN PROJECT SUCCESS RATES 26
Disagree 26.67% 12 45
Strongly disagree 11.11% 5 45
Table 5: Challenges in using project management soft skills
Strongly
agree Agree Neutral Disagree Strongly
disagree
0.00%
5.00%
10.00%
15.00%
20.00%
25.00%
30.00%
35.00% 31.11%
26.67%
4.44%
26.67%
11.11%
Challenges in using project
management soft skills
Figure 5: Challenges in using project management soft skills
Findings and analysis
The above table indicates that there are nearly 31.11% participants in the survey are
strongly agreed that implementation of project management soft skills has many challenges to be
faced. On the other hand, there are 26.67% participants are agreed on the matter. However,
approximately 4.44% participants remain neutral ion the survey, as they are not aware about the
matter. On contrary, there are 26.67% participants are disagreed regarding the matter. In the
survey, nearly 11.11% participants in the survey are strongly disagreed about the matter.’
Hence, most of the project manager participated in the survey are strongly agreed that
they face challenges while using project management soft skills. The management of the

PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFT SKILLS IN PROJECT SUCCESS RATES 27
particular organizations needs to take specific steps and invest money on deployment of soft
skills so that organizations and involved members in project management need not to face
challenges. Effective training, safety management and action based precautions would be helpful
to manage soft skills in the projects.
6. What are the challenges faced while using project management soft skills in project
management success?
Options Response % Respondents Total number of
respondents
Lack of training 35.56% 16 45
Emphasize on hard
skills
17.78% 8 45
Lack of regulatory body
or monitoring system
13.33% 6 45
Lack of standard criteria 20% 9 45
Unsuitable working
environment
13.33% 6 45

PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFT SKILLS IN PROJECT SUCCESS RATES 28
Table 6: Type of the challenges
Lack of
training Emphasize
on hard skills Lack of
regulatory
body or
monitoring
system
Lack of
standard
criteria
Unsuitable
working
environment
0.00%
5.00%
10.00%
15.00%
20.00%
25.00%
30.00%
35.00%
40.00% 35.56%
17.78%
13.33%
20.00%
13.33%
Type of the challenges
Figure 6: Type of the challenges
Findings and analysis
It is important to focus on the challenges faced while using project management soft
skills for success of the project. The above table and graph displays that there are nearly 35.56%
respondents out of total number of respondents think that lack of training is a challenge to be
faced. On the other hand, 17.78% participants think is the major challenges to be faced. In
addition, 13.33% participants in the survey think that lack of regulatory body is considered as
major challenge for using project management soft skills. On the other hand, same number of
people thinks that unsuitable working environment is the major challenge to be faced, whereas
20% participants in the survey think that lack of standard criteria is the major barrier.
Hence, it can be stated that most of the project managers participated in the survey think
that lack of training to the project manager is the major barrier to be faced. Training presents a
scope to expand knowledge based on employees. Attending training sessions can be helpful to

PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFT SKILLS IN PROJECT SUCCESS RATES 29
adopt effective skills so that success can be achieved with ease. Effective training can also be
helpful to enhance employee performance, satisfaction as well as morale. In addition, it is helpful
to address weakness of the staffs. Consistency can be grown up with the help of effective
training to the members involved in project management.
7. How far you agree that organization has an important role in adopting project management
soft skills for success of the project?
Options Response % Respondents Total number of
respondents
Strongly agree 33.33% 15 45
Agree 26.67% 12 45
Neutral 6.67% 3 45
Disagree 17.78% 8 45
Strongly disagree 15.56% 7 45
Table 7: Role of organization in adopting project management soft skills
Strongly
agree Agree Neutral Disagree Strongly
disagree
0.00%
5.00%
10.00%
15.00%
20.00%
25.00%
30.00%
35.00%
33.33%
26.67%
6.67%
17.78% 15.56%
Role of organization in adopting
project management soft skills

PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFT SKILLS IN PROJECT SUCCESS RATES 30
Figure 7: Role of organization in adopting project management soft skills
Findings and analysis
Tere are 33.33% participants are strongly agreed that that organization has an important
role in adopting project management soft skills for success of the project. Nearly 26.67%
participants are agreed with the statement. Approximately 6.67% participants are neutral.
However, nearly 17.78% participants are disagreed about the matter, whereas 15.56%
respondents are strongly disagreed about the matter.
Thus, most of the participants in the survey are strongly agreed that that organization has
an important role in adopting project management soft skills for success of the project. The
organization needs to invest more on giving training about soft skill management. On the other
hand, hiring employees with soft skill knowledge would be helpful for project management
group to present effective outcome.
8. What are your recommendations regarding overcoming the challenges faced while using
project management soft skills?
Options Response % Respondents Total number of
respondents
Providing adequate
training
40% 18 45
Setting standard criteria 17.78% 8 45
Appropriate
environment
15.56% 7 45

PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFT SKILLS IN PROJECT SUCCESS RATES 31
Creating monitoring
system
15.56% 7 45
Investment on
developing soft skills
11.11% 5 45
Table 8: Recommendations regarding overcoming the challenges
Providing
adequate training Setting standard
criteria Appropriate
environment Creating
monitoring system Investment on
developing soft
skills
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
30%
35%
40%
40.00%
17.78% 15.56% 15.56%
11.11%
Recommendations regarding overcoming the
challenges
Figure 8: Recommendations regarding overcoming the challenges
Findings and analysis
There are 40% participants opined that providing adequate training would be helpful to
overcome the challenges faced while using project management soft skills. However, nearly
17.78% respondents think that setting standard criteria is one of the major approach needs to be
adopted while using project management soft skills. Approximately 15.56% participants think
that proper environment would be helpful to overcome the challenges faced while utilizing

PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFT SKILLS IN PROJECT SUCCESS RATES 32
project management soft skills, whereas same number of people think that creation of monitoring
system can assist to overcome the challenges. However, nearly 11.11% participants think that
investment on developing soft skills can be useful for project managers to overcome the
challenges faced for using project management soft skills.
Thus, it can be stated that most of the participants in the survey think that providing
adequate training would be helpful to overcome overcoming the challenges faced while using
project management soft skills. It would be helpful to increase productivity as well as adherence
to the quality standards. Along with these, it would be helpful to increase innovation in new
strategies as well as products. Moreover, it can assist to minimize employee turnover. Adequate
training can also be helpful to improve reputation of the organization along with profile.
4.3 Reliability analysis
Summary statistics (Items):
Variable
Observ
ations
Obs.
with
missin
g data
Obs.
withou
t
missing
data
Mini
mum
Maximu
m Mean
Std.
devi
ation
Communication 45 0 45
1.00
0 5.000 3.244
1.20
9
Motivation 45 0 45
2.00
0 5.000 3.356
0.90
8
Leadership 45 0 45
2.00
0 5.000 3.489
0.86
9
Decision making 45 0 45
1.00
0 5.000 3.911
1.06
2
Conflict management 45 0 45
2.00
0 5.000 3.533
0.81
5
Stakeholder management 45 0 45
2.00
0 5.000 3.600
0.86
3
Overall Project Success 45 0 45
2.00
0 5.000 3.600
1.03
1

PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFT SKILLS IN PROJECT SUCCESS RATES 33
Summary statistics (Scale):
Variable
Observ
ations
Obs.
with
missin
g data
Obs.
withou
t
missing
data
Mini
mum
Maximu
m Mean
Std.
devi
ation
Scale 45 0 45
18.0
00 34.000 24.733
4.53
5
4.4 Correlation matrix :
Variables
Comm
unicati
on
Motiva
tion
Leader
ship
Decis
ion
maki
ng
Conflict
manage
ment
Stakeh
older
manag
ement
Over
all
Proje
ct
Succ
ess
Communication 1 0.498 0.576
0.10
6 0.580 0.553
0.04
4
Motivation 0.498 1 0.782
0.15
1 0.721 0.678
0.15
5
Leadership 0.576 0.782 1
0.19
6 0.747 0.600
0.14
7
Decision making 0.106 0.151 0.196 1 0.214 0.208
0.02
9
Conflict management 0.580 0.721 0.747
0.21
4 1 0.892
0.12
4
Stakeholder management 0.553 0.678 0.600
0.20
8 0.892 1
0.07
1
Overall Project Success 0.044 0.155 0.147
0.02
9 0.124 0.071 1
Covariance matrix :
Variables
Comm
unicati
on
Motiva
tion
Leader
ship
Decis
ion
maki
ng
Conflict
manage
ment
Stakeh
older
manag
ement
Over
all
Proje
ct
Succ
ess

PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFT SKILLS IN PROJECT SUCCESS RATES 34
Communication
1.4616
16 0.547 0.605
0.13
6 0.571 0.577
0.05
5
Motivation 0.547
0.8252
53 0.618
0.14
6 0.533 0.532
0.14
5
Leadership 0.605 0.618
0.7555
56
0.18
1 0.529 0.450
0.13
2
Decision making 0.136 0.146 0.181
1.12
8283 0.185 0.191
0.03
2
Conflict management 0.571 0.533 0.529
0.18
5
0.66363
6 0.627
0.10
5
Stakeholder management 0.577 0.532 0.450
0.19
1 0.627
0.7454
55
0.06
4
Overall Project Success 0.055 0.145 0.132
0.03
2 0.105 0.064
1.06
3636
Analysis of variance:
Source DF
Sum of
square
s
Mean
square
s F Pr > F
Between subjects 44
129.25
7 2.938
4.75
6 < 0.0001
Within subjects 270
175.14
3 0.649
Between measures 6 12.089 2.015
3.26
2 0.004
Residual 264
163.05
4 0.618
Total 314
304.40
0 0.969
Computed against model
Y=Mean(Y)
Cronbach's alpha statistics :
Cronbach's alpha
Standa
rdized
Cronba
ch's
Alpha
0.790 0.814
Guttman's statistics:

PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFT SKILLS IN PROJECT SUCCESS RATES 35
Guttman L1
Guttm
an L2
Guttm
an L3
Guttma
n L4
Gutt
man
L5
Guttman
L6
0.677 0.813 0.790 0.835
0.79
0 0.823
Display the best Split-Half:
Split-Half 1
Split-
Half 2
Leadership
Comm
unicati
on
Conflict management Motivation
Stakeholder management Decision making
Overall
Project
Succes
s
Deleted items statistics:
Variable
<Scale
/
delete
d
item>
Mean
<Scale
/
delete
d
item>
Varian
ce
<Scale/
deleted
item>
Correla
tion
<Scal
e/
delet
ed
item
> R²
<Scale/
deleted
item>
Cronbac
h's alpha
<Scale/
deleted
item>
Guttma
n L6
Communication 21.489 14.119 0.548
0.40
3 0.760 0.804
Motivation 21.378 14.695 0.724
0.68
5 0.725 0.770
Leadership 21.244 14.780 0.752
0.74
0 0.722 0.767
Decision making 20.822 17.695 0.195
0.05
7 0.826 0.855
Conflict management 21.200 14.800 0.814
0.86
7 0.715 0.760
Stakeholder management 21.133 14.936 0.732
0.82
8 0.726 0.765
Overall Project Success 21.133 18.436 0.120
0.03
6 0.837 0.858

PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFT SKILLS IN PROJECT SUCCESS RATES 36
Correlation map:
4.5 Summary
From above discussion, it summarizes that project management soft skills poses an
important aspect for success of a project. However, there are several challenges while using
project management soft skills, which are required to overcome by effective actions. Hence,
project management soft skill has a great impact on success of the project. Thus, null hypothesis
is justified in the research.
C
o
m
m
u
n
ic
a
ti
o
n
M
o
ti
v
a
ti
o
n
L
e
a
d
e
r
s
h
i
p
D
e
ci
si
o
n
m
a
ki
n
g
C
o
n
fl
ic
t
m
a
n
a
g
e
m
e
n
t
S
t
a
k
e
h
o
l
d
e
r
m
a
n
a
g
e
m
e
n
t
O
v
e
r
al
l
P
r
o
je
c
t
S
u
c
c
e
s
s
Communication
Leadership
Conflict management
Overall Project Success
Correlation map

PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFT SKILLS IN PROJECT SUCCESS RATES 37
Chapter 5: Conclusion and recommendations
5.1 Conclusion
The above discussion concludes that soft skills matter as well as contribute as an
important aspect to productivity. However, there is measurable and widening, skills gap along
with soft skills are underrepresented in terms of development of skills initiatives. As the project
managers need to interact with consumers, team members and involved stakeholder, it is
required to get the point across communication skill. Along with these, it is also required to have
superior people management skills. In addition, conflict resolution, development of team as well
as mentoring skill is required to have in a project manager. However, several challenges impose
while using project management soft skills. Therefore, proper steps and measures can be helpful
to overcome the issues and gain competitive advantages.
5.2 Linking with objectives
1. To establish relation between soft skills and project success
The objective is described in the literature review chapter of the study. On the other hand,
by analyzing question 2 and 3, it can be clearly stated that there is a relation between soft skills
and success of the project.
2. To find out the impact of effective soft skills in improving success rate of the
project
The question no 4 and 5 are related the impact of effective soft skills in success of
project. On the other hand, in literature review chapter, there has been description and secondary

PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFT SKILLS IN PROJECT SUCCESS RATES 38
data analysis regarding the second objective of the research that proves proper justification of the
objective.
3. To analyze the challenges for applying soft skills in project management
The question no 5 and 6 are linked with the objective. Moreover, it is explained in the
literature review part of the study.
4. To recommend measures for overcoming the issues
In the survey questionnaire session, question no 8 is linked with providing
recommendation to overcome the challenges while using soft skills in project. In addition, in the
last chapter of the study, recommendations are provided.
5.3 Recommendations
As present market becomes more competitive day by day, it is required to take some
actions that can be helpful eradicate the challenges faced while using soft skills in project
management.
• Emotional intelligence can be the key for anticipating team dynamics and
read emotions of team members.
• Following of ethics and integrity would be helpful for project managers.
• Better people management is required as effective project management
soft skills.
• Adaptive communication would be helpful for obtaining competitive
advantages.

PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFT SKILLS IN PROJECT SUCCESS RATES 39
5.4 Limitation and future scope
As there was limited time, the research did not allow the respondents of larger sample
sizes to do better analysis. On the other hand, the topic will be helpful for the future researchers
as secondary sources, whereas it would be helpful for the project managers to gain effective
actions in project management.

PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFT SKILLS IN PROJECT SUCCESS RATES 40
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PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFT SKILLS IN PROJECT SUCCESS RATES 43
Appendix 1

PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFT SKILLS IN PROJECT SUCCESS RATES 44
Appendix 2
Survey questionnaire
1. How long you are working as a role of project manager in your organization?
Options
1-2 years
3-4 years
5-7 years
8-10 years
More than 10 years
.
2. How far you agree that effective communication has an important role for getting success
in a project?
Options
Strongly agree
Agree
Neutral
Disagree
Strongly disagree
3. How far you agree that stakeholder management is beneficial for getting success in the
project?

PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFT SKILLS IN PROJECT SUCCESS RATES 45
Options
Strongly agree
Agree
Neutral
Disagree
Strongly disagree
4. What are the project management soft skills required for success of a project?
Options
Communication
Motivation
Leadership
Decision making
Conflict management
5. How far you agree that implementing project management soft skills has a number of
challenges to be faced?
Options
Strongly agree
Agree
Neutral
Disagree
Strongly disagree

PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFT SKILLS IN PROJECT SUCCESS RATES 46
6. What are the challenges faced while using project management soft skills in project
management success?
Options
Lack of training
Emphasize on hard
skills
Lack of regulatory body
or monitoring system
Lack of standard criteria
Unsuitable working
environment
7. How far you agree that organization has an important role in adopting project management
soft skills for success of the project?
Options
Strongly agree
Agree
Neutral
Disagree
Strongly disagree

PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFT SKILLS IN PROJECT SUCCESS RATES 47
8. What are your recommendations regarding overcoming the challenges faced while using
project management soft skills?
Options
Providing adequate
training
Setting standard criteria
Appropriate
environment
Creating monitoring
system
Investment on
developing soft skills