Systems Thinking in Project Management : Theoretical Framework and Empirical Evidence from Polish Companies

This research examines new directions in project management and systems thinking theory and practice. Relevant literature is synthesized to provide a holistic picture of current knowledge of the topic, highlighting meanings, principles, prerequisites, process and consequences. The major aim of the research is to investigate the nature of systems thinking in project management. The research methodology was divided into two phases: (1) designing a theoretical framework for applying systems thinking into project management; (2) evaluating project management practices of enterprises in Poland, to identify their approaches, actions, methods and problems related to the application of systems thinking in project management. Conducted research has shown that there is a gap in the field of systems thinking in project management, which can be seen in the divergence of expectations of executive management with management practices in this regard