Investigating the impact of project managers’ intention of generative artificial intelligence on project success with the moderating role of employee upskilling

Abstract Generative AI tools for project management are causing significant changes in the IT field, including chatbots and other tools. This research examined how project managers/team members intend to use ChatGPT and similar GenAI tools in their project management. To better understand project managers’ approach, this research applies the technology acceptance model theory. The study examines the impact of factors such as Innovation Attitude, Peer Influence and Task-Technology Fit, using upskilling to assess Pakistani IT project managers’ intention to use Gen AI tools. The analysis is carried out using SPSS and a Hayes PROCESS Macro Extension tool. Survey responses from 315 people were collected for analysis; only those completed completely were included, and the rest were not used. A study was conducted to determine whether the variables are related and to decide whether to accept a hypothesis. We use linear regression to assess a straight relationship between the dependent and independent variables. The results prove that all the factors are important for using AI tools. Positive effects on project success were demonstrated for Innovation Attitude, Peer Influence and Task-Technology Fit. While Employee Upskilling does not specifically affect a project’s success, it moderates the extent to which Peer Influence and Task-Technology Fit affect a team. The study stresses the importance of an innovative mindset, how people interact and the suitability of the activity when using AI in project management. It highlights new research directions that involve cultural and organizational environments, as well as the rapid changes in AI technologies.