Critical success factors in remote project teams

Purpose This paper aims to identify the critical success factors (CSFs) for managing remote project teams (RPT) within project environments. In other words, it focuses on identifying the crucial elements for the success of projects executed by RPT. Design/methodology/approach An exploratory mixed-method was used combining a case study approach with the application of surveys. Document analysis and direct observation were also applied. The analyzed company is a well-known project-based company acting in the coffee industry and is justified due to its multilocation and multicultural perspectives. Findings Through an initial literature review, 93 CSFs were identified and then organized into 7 categories. The subsequent phase involved the relevance evaluation of the identified CSFs through surveys conducted in an international company. The first results analysis identified 20 CSFs. A deeper analysis identified the most relevant factors for each category (Project Managers, 33 factors; Team Leaders, 15; and Team Members, 29). Combining these results, 11 CSFs were identified. Originality/value With the trend of remote work that is being kept after the pandemic, this study contributes to identify the most relevant issues that must be taken into account in managing remote teams. By identifying those issues, or CSFs, managers and team members might focus on the most relevant factors.