Modeling critical driving factors of stakeholder integration and their influences on construction megaproject performance: a regression-based analysis

Purpose The purpose of this study is to investigate the critical driving factors of stakeholder integration (CDF-SIs) in construction megaprojects and examine their influence on key performance parameters, including time, cost, quality, stakeholder satisfaction, dispute resolution and benefit delivery. Design/methodology/approach In all, 32 stakeholder integration drivers (DSIs) were identified through a systematic literature review and expert validation. A structured questionnaire was administered to 700 Indian megaproject professionals, yielding 166 valid responses. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) distilled the DSIs into eight CDF-SIs. Principal component regression (PCR) was then applied to assess the impact of these factors on six megaproject performance parameters. The findings of this study were further validated using a case study of a high-speed rail corridor project in India. Findings Eight CDF-SIs were identified: Strategic Stakeholder Engagement (SSE), Advanced Project Leadership and Integration (APLI), Comprehensive Stakeholder Analysis (CSA), Stakeholder Value Creation (SVC), Evidence-Based Planning and Risk Management (EPRM), Relational Stakeholder Management (RSM), Stakeholder Needs Assessment and Conflict Resolution (SNACR) and Project Complexity Assessment (PCA). SSE emerged as the most influential factor across all performance metrics. The results of this study demonstrate that different combinations of CDF-SIs significantly impact specific project outcomes, underscoring the importance of targeted stakeholder integration strategies. Originality/value This study offers a novel conceptualisation of construction megaprojects as stakeholder-driven supply chains. By integrating exploratory factor analysis and PCR, this paper provides a robust empirical model linking stakeholder integration practices to diverse performance outcomes. The findings contribute to both theory and practice by offering actionable insights for enhancing stakeholder alignment and megaproject success.