Mapping the Project Complexity of Metro Rail Project Using DEMATEL Technique

Metro rails are the most desired infrastructure for metropolitan cities. These projects are inter- organizational due to its involvement of numerous stakeholders, complex project objectives, and cultural diversity etc., As a result of these specific features, most metro rail projects are facing complexities, which have increased overall project complexity. The analysis of project complexity is a critical step in the project's execution. In this study, a novel assessment technique was developed with the specific goal of understanding complexity factors and their interdependency in metro rail projects. Semi-structured interviews and a questionnaire survey were conducted to identify the complexity and its factors. Decision making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) a structured method is used to identify the interdependence among its factors. The analysis revealed that there are dynamic relationships between the complexity factors, with changes in one affecting the other. The complexity map and causal diagram are used in the study to represent the most significant complexity factors in terms of their overall relationship with the other factors. This research has practical implications so that practitioners can focus on complexity factors that have a significant interrelationship for effective management of complexities in metro rail projects. As a result, project owners, contractors, and consultants can use specific findings to create management plans and allocate resources.