Motivation to perform in a multiple-project environment: The impact of autonomy, support, goal clarity, and opportunities for learning

This study was conducted to investigate the impact of autonomy, support, goal clarity, and learning opportunities on the motivation to perform of project managers and team members in multiple-project environments. Even though the motivation literature is rather extensive, the motivation of personnel in multiple-project environments is underexplored. As management of multiple projects becomes very common in industry, the understanding of what motivates project managers and team members who work on multiple, simultaneous projects is crucial. Such an understanding should guide management to create conditions that support multiple-project management, reduce burnout, and help retain project personnel. In addition, the findings from this study extend the application of motivation concepts to multiple-project management and shed light on future research opportunities.