OPTIMIZING COMPLEX PROJECT OUTCOMES: THE INFLUENCE OF DECISION FACTORS THROUGH INTUITIVE DECISION-MAKING

Abstract

In the 21st century, individuals and organizations face increasingly complex challenges in achieving project milestones. Decision-making tools have become crucial for ensuring project success, with decision-driving factors playing a pivotal role in guiding critical choices. While prior research has examined decision-making and project outcomes, limited attention has been given to intuitive decision-making in conjunction with decision-driving factors, particularly within the oil and gas industry.

This quantitative study investigates the impact of intuitive decision-making on project success, considering the moderating role of decision-driving factors using a mediated moderation model. Decision-driving factor items were developed through a three-phase approach based on Godfred (2018). Data were collected via structured questionnaires from employees in Pakistan’s oil and gas industry using random sampling. From a population of 11,000, a sample of 372 participants was determined according to Bukhari (2021). Reliability and validity were assessed using Cronbach’s alpha, R-square, F-square tests, and validation of higher- and lower-order constructs in SmartPLS 4, followed by hypothesis testing.

Findings indicate that decision-driving factors significantly influence intuitive decision-making, which in turn positively affects project success, and mediates the relationship between decision-making and project outcomes. However, decision-driving factors did not have a direct effect on project success, nor did they moderate the relationship between intuitive decision-making and project success. These results offer practical insights for project managers and decision-makers, highlighting the importance of leveraging intuitive decision-making and understanding key decision-driving factors to enhance project success.