Exploring Key Factors Influencing Resilience in Large-Scale Infrastructure Projects

Abstract

With the rapid pace of urbanization, large-scale infrastructure projects have become integral to economic development. However, a surge in destructive accidents in recent years has inflicted immeasurable losses on such projects, posing fresh challenges to existing risk management practices. This study advocates for a novel perspective on managing large-scale infrastructure projects by introducing resilience as a crucial dimension alongside traditional risk management approaches. To bolster resilience amidst uncertain risk events, it is imperative to identify and analyze the factors influencing resilience in these projects. Drawing from complex adaptive theory and resilience theory, this study initially conceptualizes project resilience within the context of large-scale infrastructure endeavors. Subsequently, leveraging existing literature, it identifies key influencing factors such as encompassing communication, managerial capabilities, experiential learning, innovation prowess, resource sufficiency, technological diversification, and emergency protocols. Through exploratory factor analysis of 101 effective responses, a comprehensive framework of influencing factors shaping resilience is formulated. These factors are synthesized and categorized into relationship management, resource management, and process management domains to facilitate more effective project oversight. The prevailing literature on project resilience factors is extensive yet fragmented, lacking a cohesive research framework. This study's theoretical framework guides efforts to bolster resilience in large-scale infrastructure projects and lays the groundwork for further exploration into project resilience management mechanisms. Specifically, it is poised to aid managers in clarifying management priorities and making targeted decisions.