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

Abstract

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.