The “dark side” of projectification : The impact of project work on the employees’ emotions. What are the negative aspects of project work and its effects on
Master thesis
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http://hdl.handle.net/11250/2561511Utgivelsesdato
2018Metadata
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Sammendrag
In this thesis, we explore the “dark side” of projectification. Working on projects have
become an increasing trend and preferred way of working in most types of businesses and
industries. This transition is described as being among the most significant changes in modern
organisations. Critical studies, focused on the subject have emphasised some noteworthy, but
perhaps blocked existential consequences for individuals involved in project work. This
thesis, therefore, aims to add to this field of research and uncover the negative aspects of
project work and its effects on the individual project worker’s emotions in a project life cycle.
The thesis is an exploratory study of the Norwegian economy, where we have obtained
primary data through the use of semi-structured interviews from ten project workers and
project leaders, representing different industries, sectors and company sizes. The findings
suggest that the project workers are affected by sleeping problems and are subject to negative
mental stress due to demanding work situations. Further, our findings indicate that projects, as
a design of professionalism, is where managing and conquering difficult project work
situations becomes a part of being dependable, successful and professional, and where
extraordinary emotions do not belong. Thus, similarly to Cicmil, Lindgren, and Packendorff
(2016), we worry about the ethical issue of “projectification” with its impact on the lasting
sustainability for both organisations and humanity. However, project tools and methodologies
seem to have a moderating effect, whereby the use of appropriate tools and methods appear to
help employees feel a sense of safety while also making projects more manageable.
Regarding the process of emotions in a project situation; our findings suggest that projects
start with being positive where there is a belief that dreams can be realised. However, by the
end negative emotions become dominant, and one is longing for a new project.
Beskrivelse
Master's thesis Business Administration BE501 - University of Agder 2018