Unlocking the Project Mindset: A Multilevel Comparative Analysis of Characteristics, Antecedents and Outcomes

Defining and analyzing a Project Mindset is crucial, as it
holds theoretical, empirical and practical implications: First, this
dissertation systematically explores the Project Mindset as a distinct concept,
providing an initial theoretical framework to support future research in PM. As
an initial and preliminary working definition Project Mindset can be understood
as an umbrella term that encompasses ways of thinking, competencies and
attitudes to effectively navigate and thrive in dynamic and uncertain
project-oriented organizations. Secondly, in the empirical dimension, it will
develop and test a tool to inter-connect the components of the Project Mindset,
enabling further research into its relevance, development and impact. Finally
and practically, findings from this research could be used to promote employee
development, guide job entrants and lifelong learners (LLL), and support
recruitment processes by highlighting the role of the Project Mindset in
project-oriented roles. This study aims to address these gaps by exploring
three main aspects of the Project Mindset: (1) its core components, (2) the
factors that drive and hinder it (antecedents) as well as its outcomes, and (3)
similarities and differences at the individual, team, and organizational
levels, as well as across different groups, including students, project
employees and lifelong learners.