Investigating Barriers to Project Delivery using Virtual Teams

Abstract In the light of recent global developments like COVID-19, the need for organisations to be equipped with resilient and adaptive strategies has further underscored the relevance of virtual teams and remote working. However, remote working and virtual teams may still represent newer levels of challenges for the delivery of projects especially in developing and emerging countries. Utilising semi-structured interviews with project managers, this paper examined the barriers to project delivery using virtual teams in Nigeria. The findings indicated that barriers to project delivery using virtual teams usually emerge from organisations and their project teams. The present study validates the position that project delivery in virtual teams requires additional efforts to attain their objectives through effective communications and the adoption of appropriate technology. It concluded by reiterating the need for project managers to develop strategies for fostering trust and constantly clarifying project goals and guidelines in virtual teams.