Enhancing the quality of project management through action research

Purpose The article brings the quality characteristics of action research to project management and explores how these quality characteristics of well-designed and executed action research can inform and enhance the practice of project management. Design/methodology/approach A reflective paper. Findings The article identifies five imperatives in bringing together action research and project management. The authors argue that project management may be conducted in a manner that is rigorous, reflective and relevant. Research limitations/implications The integration of project management and action research is not empirically described. Therefore, researchers are encouraged to test and further develop the model in relation to the design and management of projects. Practical implications Practical questions are posed for implementation. Social implications The integration of action research and project management is a collaborative venture and the engagement imperative emphasizes that collaboration. Originality/value By bringing together action research and project management the article integrates five imperatives: design, engagement, improvement, action and research and quality characteristics of action research to enhance project management as rigorous, reflective and relevant.