ASSESSMENT ON THE PROJECT MANAGEMENT PRACTICES OF SELECTED BUSINESS MEMBERSHIP ORGANIZATIONS (BMOS) IN ADDIS ABABA

Abstract

This study aims to assess the project management practices of Business Membership Organizations (BMOs) in Addis Ababa. The study used a descriptive research method with both quantitative and qualitative approaches to provide a comprehensive analysis of project management practices within the BMOs. Primary data were gathered from employees involved in project work and internal documents, while secondary data were used from related journals, articles, books, and project publications. The study included the entire population of 40 BMOs in Addis Ababa, of which 25 met the study requirements. The study targeted 25 respondents, and 22 completed and returned the questionnaires, resulting in an overall success rate of 88%. The study found that many BMOs lacked a separate project management department and had limited access to PM training. The main challenges faced by the BMOs were lack of sufficient resources and external factors. In terms of project management knowledge areas, the study found that the BMOs had a lower mean score in project quality management plan, project schedule management, project risk management, and other knowledge areas. The study also found that some of the knowledge areas were not well managed, and there were problems with defining activities, documenting policies and procedures, and resource utilization. Overall, the study suggests that BMOs in Addis Ababa need to focus more on project management best practices, especially in areas where they are lacking. The study recommends that BMOs should invest in project management training, establish a separate project management department, and use appropriate procedures and tools to manage different projects effectively.