Do Classics Exist in Megaproject Management?

TL;DR

This paper investigates the existence and types of classics in megaproject management, finding citation classics are present but conventional and Kuhnian classics are not clearly established, highlighting the importance of developing influential texts.

Contribution

It categorizes different types of classics in megaproject management and provides guidelines for developing influential classics in the field.

Findings

Citation classics exist and perform well in megaproject management.

No evidence of conventional classics recognized by most experts.

Unclear existence of Kuhnian paradigmatic classics in the field.

Abstract

This paper asks, "Do classics exist in megaproject management?" We identify three types of classic texts: conventional, Kuhnian, and citation classics. We find that the answer to our question depends on the definition of "classic" employed. First, "citation classics" do exist in megaproject management, and they perform remarkably well when compared to the rest of the management literature. A preliminary Top Ten of citation classics is presented. Second, there is no indication that "conventional classics" exist in megaproject management, i.e., texts recognized as definitive by a majority of experts. Third, there is also no consensus as to whether "Kuhnian classics" exist, i.e., texts with paradigmatic clout. The importance of classics seems to be accepted, however, just as work to develop, discuss, and consolidate classics is seen as essential by megaproject scholars. A set of guidelines is presented for developing classics in megaproject management research.